Kouga Local Municipality Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community and Safety Services, Daniel Benson, emphasised the power of prayer in combating gangsterism during the Department of Social Development’s Anti-Gangsterism Prevention Programme at Jeffreys Bay Comprehensive High School.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Addressing residents, community leaders and representatives from organisations, including the South African Police Service Anti-Gang Unit, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Provincial Department of Community Safety, Benson said in a statement, “We have closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, we have dogs and we have manpower, but recently I discovered I have one tool that I am not using in the fight against crime, and that is prayer. To fight this evil of gangsterism, we must pray to God to help us.”\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a heartfelt address, Benson also acknowledged the role women play in communities where father figures are absent.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We must all stand together against the evil \u2013 men and women,” he said while reaffirming the municipality’s support for the programme.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The event featured active participation from organisations such as the Humansdorp Victim Support Centre, Ernest Malgas Treatment Centre, On Eagles Wings Multi-Purpose Centre, Community Police Forums, TADA, the Liquor Board, and others, reflecting a united front against gang activity.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nothemba Mafuduku, representing the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development, highlighted the importance of involving both parents and children in tackling the scourge of gangsterism.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Parents are the most influential people in the lives of their children,” Mafuduku noted, adding that collective conversations and shared ideas are critical in addressing the issue.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She also emphasised the long-term nature of the initiative, stating, “This will not be a one-day solution. There will be follow-up sessions with parents and their children.”\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The event underscored the importance of community collaboration, with a shared vision to create safer environments and empower families to combat the challenges posed by gangsterism.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Kouga Local Municipality Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community and Safety Services, Daniel Benson, emphasised the power of prayer in combating gangsterism during the Department of Social Development’s Anti-Gangsterism Prevention Programme at Jeffreys Bay Comprehensive High 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