In the pursuit of fostering safer, more resilient communities in South Africa, the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF) has
joined hands with Harmony, a prominent gold mining and exploration company and also South Africa’s largest gold miner by
volume.
Together, they have embarked on a transformative initiative known as the Communities and Justice Programme (CJP),
aiming to address and alleviate the impact of crime in mine host communities and local townships.
SSAF, a registered non-profit company and public benefit organisation, has a dedicated mission to establish safe, just, and
sustainable communities throughout the nation.
About Safer South Africa Foundation
In keeping with the vision and commitment to a transformed and effective criminal justice structure in South Africa, the Police
and Prisons Civil Rights Union’s 7th National Congress in 2011 resolved to support the establishment of a charitable
foundation.
Following a series of consultations and recommendations from a Roundtable Discussion, themed, “Local Communities
Taking Centre Stage In The Fight Against Crime,” the Safer South Africa Foundation was established in 2012.
The Communities and Justice Programme
The Communities and Justice Programme (CJP) is a targeted intervention that focuses on two key areas: the “in-school
youth programme” and the “out-of-school youth programme.” These initiatives are designed to equip young individuals within
the community with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate issues related to crime and safety effectively. By
reaching out to both in-school and out-of-school youth, SSAF and Harmony aim to create a comprehensive and inclusive
approach to community safety.
The in-school youth programme recognises the crucial role educational institutions play in shaping the values and behaviors
of young individuals. Through this component of the CJP, SSAF and Harmony seek to engage with students, providing them
with insights into the challenges surrounding crime and safety. By fostering a sense of awareness and responsibility, the
programme aims to empower these students to contribute positively to the safety of their communities.
Simultaneously, the out-of-school youth programme acknowledges the unique circumstances faced by those who may not
be engaged in formal education. SSAF and Harmony recognise the importance of reaching out to this demographic,
ensuring that they too are equipped with the necessary tools to make informed decisions and contribute to the safety of their
communities.
The Safety and Security Capacitation Initiative, the Communities and Justice Programme, represents a strategic
collaboration between SSAF and Harmony. As a public benefit organisation, SSAF is driven by a commitment to making a
lasting impact on South African society, and Harmony’s involvement in this initiative showcases a shared dedication to good
corporate citizenry and responsible stewardship.
By promoting community-based solutions and engaging with the youth, SSAF and Harmony are actively working towards
creating environments where residents can live, work, and thrive without the constant threat of crime. The emphasis on
education and empowerment within the Communities and Justice Programme aligns with the broader goal of fostering
sustainable, resilient communities.
In conclusion, the partnership between Harmony and the Safer South Africa Foundation in the implementation of the
Communities and Justice Programme exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges of crime
in mine host communities. Through education, empowerment, and community engagement, this initiative serves as a
beacon of hope for a safer, more secure South Africa.
