Knysna Launches Community Safety Forum

“This initiative represents a significant advancement in our commitment to improving community safety,” said Malepeng. “

The two-day launch involved extensive discussions to ensure the forum is equipped to handle a wide array of safety concerns. Unlike the Knysna Community Police Forum, this new forum is designed to offer a multi-sectoral approach to safety that spans beyond traditional police precincts.”

The South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995 outlines the role of the Knysna Community Police Forum (CPF), which focuses on fostering collaboration between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and local communities to address crime within specific precincts. Malepeng emphasized that the Knysna Community Safety Forum has a broader mandate, allowing it to tackle a range of safety issues beyond the scope of individual police stations.

One key area of focus is addressing environmental and safety concerns that extend beyond police jurisdiction, such as crime hotspot management which involves coordination across various departments.

“The forum’s holistic approach aims to address a wide spectrum of issues, from law enforcement and social cohesion to urban planning,” Malepeng explained. “It will bridge the gap between community safety challenges and the support provided by justice, crime prevention, and security sectors.”

Malepeng concluded, “This collaborative effort underscores our dedication to safeguarding all Knysna residents. The forum will act as a central hub for addressing safety concerns and ensuring that all stakeholders work together towards creating a safer, more secure Knysna. We are confident that it will make a significant and lasting impact on local community safety.”

The Knysna Community Safety Forum is a collaborative initiative involving Knysna Municipality, Garden Route District Municipality, SAPS, CPF, local neighborhood watches, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Community Safety, and various other community stakeholders.

Knysna