The national #WomenShutdown has renewed public concern about the safety of women and children in Tokai Forest. Parkscape, the community-driven safety organisation, warned this week that Cape Town’s urban-edge green spaces still expose users to significant risk. This is especially true during quiet hours. Recent discussions highlight the Tokai forest crime concerns that have persisted.
Origins of Parkscape
Parkscape formed in 2016 after a teenage girl lost her life in Tokai Forest. A tragic Tokai crime incident shocked the community and followed earlier warnings from residents. Nearly twenty years ago, community members cautioned SANParks that replacing pine plantations with dense fynbos would limit visibility. This would increase vulnerability. Those warnings went unanswered, and residents say the risks they highlighted remain visible today.
Community-led safety efforts
Today, Parkscape partners with neighbourhood watches, SAPS, Law Enforcement and private security teams to strengthen safety. Volunteers conduct regular patrols and share safety information with forest users. They also encourage visible routes through Lower Tokai. Thousands visit Tokai Forest weekly, and Parkscape believes a strong, active community presence reduces crime. It improves confidence among walkers, runners and families. In tackling ongoing crime issues in Tokai forest, their efforts are vital.
The organisation also works to keep open sightlines along popular paths. This is important during busy weekends and early mornings when many women use the forest for exercise.
16 Days of Activism event
As part of the national and international 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, Parkscape will host its annual ribbon-tying ceremony at the Tokai Ribbon Gate on Saturday 29 November at 09:00. The event includes a 4 km walk in Lower Tokai to honour women and girls lost to violence. It raises awareness of crime in the Tokai forest.
Call to residents
Parkscape encouraged residents to join the walk, participate in the ribbon display and support efforts to create safer public spaces. In addressing Tokai forest crime, the organisation says lasting safety depends on active community involvement. It also depends on consistent visibility and regular reporting of suspicious behaviour.
