.jpg)
In an effort to foster a safe learning environment within our schools, the Sedibeng District Community Safety Forum, led by Mr. Peter Kele, has initiated the Sedibeng District Cycle Tour Against Crime. This initiative includes key stakeholders such as SAPS, the Department of Education, Correctional Services, Health, Social Development, the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gauteng Community Safety, Sedibeng Community Safety, Midvaal Local Municipality, Midvaal Traffic, Midvaal Fire Department, the Sedibeng District GBVF Rapid Response Team, and various other district stakeholders including local Community Policing Forums, Community in Blue, Afriguard Security, COGTA, Deaf SA, Thuthuzela Centre, NYDA, GTW, Spiritual Crime Prevention, BeSure Foundation, and GBV Brigades.
From 15 to 19 July 2024, this educational cycle tour, themed 'DON'T BE A FOOL, CRIME IS NOT COOL,' targeted six schools in the Midvaal Local Municipality: Meyerton High School, Springfield Special School, Assemblies of God College, New Hope Secondary School, Roshnee, and Ruster-Vaal High School. The tour addressed issues such as GBVF, substance abuse, gangsterism, teenage pregnancy, and other illegal activities prevalent in schools.
The cycle tour commenced with a launch event on 15 July 2024, at Midvaal Mayoral Park. The event featured speeches from MMC Chantal Gomes, who officially opened the launch and welcomed attendees; Acting Station Commander of Meyerton SAPS, Lieutenant Colonel Rashaad Dawood Makhene, who extended support for the tour within his jurisdiction; and MMC of Community Services, MMC Mary Anne Myburgh, who delivered a keynote address. Representatives from various stakeholders and sponsors also conveyed their support, with Lieutenant Colonel De Winnaar concluding with a vote of thanks.
The tour progressed to Meyerton High School, the first stop, where Deputy District Commissioner Brigadier Nkhwashu led the program. Brigadier Nkhwashu and the team engaged with learners, discussing critical issues such as substance abuse, gangsterism, bullying, and teenage pregnancy.
Over the span of five days, all six schools were visited, with positive reactions from students who were enthusiastic about the law enforcement officers participating in the cycle tour.
On the final day, 19 July 2024, Mr Peter Kele expressed gratitude to everyone who dedicated their time and efforts to this initiative, emphasizing the collective responsibility to safeguard children and the communal effort required to raise them.