OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
https://doi.org/10.64211/oidaijsd190511
An evaluation of the implementation of the safer cities project in South Africa
Jenny Pillay 1, David Tubatsi Masiloane 2
1, 2 Department of Police Practice, University of South Africa, P.O. Box 392, South Africa.
Corresponding author: dmasiloa@unisa.ac.za
Volume 18, Issue 05, Pg. 141-154, 2026.
Abstract: Safety is a major concern in cities around the world. Criminal activities in urban areas leave a geographical footprint, affecting the safety and security of city dwellers and tourists alike. The South African Police Service, together with ten identified cities and other strategic stakeholders, piloted the safer cities project in an effort to address criminal activities and enhance residents’ safety. This study evaluated the implementation of the project by exploring its potential to reduce crime and enhance individual safety. To that end, a qualitative approach was used to interview 30 project team members, representative of the South African Police Service, the piloted cities, and traffic police departments, as well as a national representative from Business Against Crime South Africa and the Community Police Forum. The analysis identified several challenges that need to be addressed for the smooth implementation of the project and the enhancement of safety and security, in efforts to create safer cities. Also highlighted were the value of data-driven policing strategies to leverage advanced analytics, real-time crime data and predictive technologies to optimise police responses and resource allocation.
Keywords: Community policing; crime prevention; partnership in safety; partnership policing; safer cities.
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