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As the proceedings continued, the first panel moderated by Law Enforcement Mangaung’s Mr. William Porotloane unpacked key Community Safety Advancement topics. The discussion featured representatives from the Neighbourhood Watch (Heidedal, Greater Mangaung), the Community Policing Forum (CPF), and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Presentations were delivered by Ms. Angie Mokasi, who outlined the significance of ward-based policing in strengthening grassroots safety initiatives and enhancing collaboration between communities and law enforcement. Dr. Wanda Zondi also addressed the panel, focusing on cybersecurity awareness and underscoring the growing importance of digital vigilance in protecting communities from cyber-related threats.
In response to the national outcry surrounding Gender-Based Violence (GBV), femicide, and contact crimes, a critical engagement was convened with key stakeholders, including SAPS officials and the District Court Control Prosecutor. The discussion highlighted the urgent need to strengthen prevention strategies, improve victim support systems, and ensure coordinated and effective law enforcement responses.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mpho Mojanaga moderated a compelling session titled “Creating a Safe Learning Culture,” which brought together leadership from the University of the Free State (UFS), the Central University of Technology (CUT), and representatives from the schooling sector. The dialogue centred on fostering safe, inclusive, and protective educational environments for learners and students across institutions.
The session on “Smart City Development: Digital Solutions for a Safer Mangaung” was led by the MMC for Economic Development, Manthuse Letawana, and moderated by Mr. Franklin Mofoka from Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. The discussion explored how technology and digital innovation can enhance urban safety and improve service delivery.
Representatives from Vodacom, Huawei, VumaCam, and Hytera participated in a dynamic question-and-answer session, providing detailed insights into their technological capabilities, digital infrastructure solutions, and internet service provisions aimed at strengthening the city’s safety systems.
HOD Nokuthula Chakane led the discussion on “Building Sustainable Partnerships for a Safer Mangaung.” The panel included SALGA representative Ms. Sibongile Mathibela, Mr. Pierce Van Heerden from BuildersMart, and CPF Provincial Chairperson Mr. Joe Sebeela. The conversation focused on reinforcing collaboration between government, business, and communities to enhance safety across Mangaung.
Mr. Naledi Moloi, SRC President and student representative from UFS, emphasised that a truly safe city must provide reliable services and practical solutions that consistently support the wellbeing of all residents. He highlighted the disparity between students living on campus and those residing off campus, stressing that students attending the same institution should not experience unequal levels of safety or service delivery. Essential services such as electricity, water, waste removal, and security must be equitably provided to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and valued.
