Klerksdorp, North West – 13 October 2025
In a powerful show of faith in action, the Roman Catholic Church in Klerksdorp has joined hands with the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF) to implement the Communities and Justice Programme (CJP) — an innovative, experiential crime-prevention and safety awareness initiative designed to empower young people to become champions for justice in their communities.
“The CJP is a very impactful programme. What drives the positive impact is the collaboration between civil society, the government, and communities,” said Ms Irene Ramatisa, North West Provincial Coordinator for the SSAF.
This women-led collaboration began when members of various Roman Catholic churches in Klerksdorp learned about the success of the programme in nearby schools. Seeing its potential to tackle local safety and crime challenges, church leaders approached Ms Ramatisa to bring the CJP into their congregations and communities.
More than 120 young people are currently being equipped with practical knowledge about the criminal justice system, their rights and responsibilities, and ways they can actively promote safer neighbourhoods. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, and community dialogues, the programme instills respect for the law, social responsibility, and active citizenship among the youth.
Ms Ramatisa emphasised the long-term value of the partnership: “We are addressing crime today but also building a generation that values safety, respect, and unity. The Roman Catholic Church has shown that faith and action can work hand in hand to build a better future.”
Retired General Riah Phiyega, CEO of the Safer South Africa Foundation, commended the church’s involvement, saying: “Churches are trusted pillars in our communities. This partnership in Klerksdorp is a shining example of how collaboration between faith-based organisations and civil society can make our streets safer and our communities stronger.”
The Communities and Justice Programme bridges the gap between communities and the criminal justice system, ensuring that young people understand how justice works and how they can contribute positively. By combining the moral guidance of the Church with the expertise of SSAF, the initiative in Klerksdorp serves as a sustainable model for community-driven crime prevention.
As part of the CJP, SSAF works closely with key stakeholders, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Correctional Services, the Traffic Department, and the South African Human Rights Commission.
The programme also offers hands-on learning experiences, such as visits to local magistrates’ courts and correctional centres, where participants witness the justice system in action and hear first-hand testimonies from their peers about life behind bars.
Through this partnership, the Klerksdorp Roman Catholic Church and the Safer South Africa Foundation are not only responding to crime but also nurturing a new generation of responsible, justice-minded citizens.
