Johannesburg, August 2024 – Memeza Community Safety is proud to announce the expansion of its SGBVF System Reduction Programme, sponsored by the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation, into Mpumalanga. This marks a crucial step in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and crime. The launch, coinciding with Women’s Month in South Africa, underscores Memeza’s and FirstRand Empowerment Foundation’s commitment to empowering communities, particularly women, to create a safer future.

The official launch will take place on August 23, 2024, at the Moreipuso Tribal Authority Hall in Bushbuckridge, signifying Memeza’s dedication to working directly with communities and local partners.

“The expansion of this impact programme into Mpumalanga is a testament to our dedication to addressing the pressing issue of GBV,” says Thlogi Ngcobo, Memeza Programme Manager and spokesperson. “By bringing our innovative safety solutions to this community, we aim to empower residents, particularly women, to take control of their safety and contribute to a safer South Africa.”

A Multi-Faceted Approach to GBV Prevention

Memeza's comprehensive approach to community safety focuses on technology, partnerships, and community empowerment.

The overall programme will target 38,000 GBV beneficiaries nationally. These beneficiaries will receive sponsored GBV and Crime Prevention Technology, linked to local South African Police Services (SAPS), Community Policing Forums, and a locally created specialised GBV response network, with the aim of creating local jobs for youth in the targeted communities.

The GBV and Crime Prevention technology that will be provided to the community of Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga will include the following:

• Memeza Personal Alarms: A compact, user-friendly device emitting a loud siren when activated, deterring attackers and alerting those nearby.
• Memeza Community Policing Alarm: A powerful household alarm system that connects directly to the local police and emergency services, providing rapid response to incidents.
• SaferCity Mobile Panic App: A mobile application offering real-time access to social workers, safety information, emergency contacts, and a panic button for immediate assistance.

Through these tools, Memeza aims to create a robust safety net for the Bushbuckridge community, empowering residents to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Building a Stronger Community Network

Beyond technology, Memeza fosters strong community partnerships. By collaborating with the local Community Policing Forum, SAPS, the Civilian Secretariat for Police Services, private security industry partners such as AURA and SaferCity, local NGOs, and community leaders, the organisation will establish a comprehensive GBV response network, creating up to 10 new jobs in the process.

“Our goal is to build resilient communities where everyone feels safe,” adds Ngcobo. “By combining technology, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of people in Bushbuckridge.”

Memeza: A Global Vision

Memeza’s expansion into Mpumalanga signifies a significant step towards achieving a safer South Africa. The organisation is confident that by working together with the community, it can create a lasting legacy of safety and empowerment. This initiative aligns with Memeza’s broader global vision of empowering communities worldwide to prevent and respond to crime.

About Memeza Community Safety

Memeza is a South African nonprofit organisation dedicated to enhancing community safety through innovative technology and community-driven initiatives. By providing accessible safety solutions and fostering strong partnerships, Memeza empowers communities to take control of their safety and build a safer future for all.

Press Release Submitted By:

JT Communication Solutions
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