WC to spend R1.4 billion to protect at-risk youth from gangs
17 July 2023
In response to a DA parliamentary question, it was revealed that the DA-run Western Cape Government will be spending R1.467 billion over the next three financial years to address the issue of gang activity among young people in the province.
The Provincial Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports (DCAS) has outlined its expenditure plan as follows:
R480,975,000 in 2023/24
R486,873,000 in 2024/25
R499,266,000 in 2025/26
Recognising the prevalence of gang activity in the Western Cape, exacerbated by the inadequate resources and personnel of the South African Police Service (SAPS), the DCAS is taking proactive measures to combat this issue and keep young people away from gangs.
To achieve this, the department has implemented several strategies such as Youth Development Programs, Sports and Recreational Activities, Arts and Culture Programs, Education and Skills Development, Community Engagement and Outreach.
Youth Development Programs: The department offers various youth development programs such as YearBeyond, the MOD program, after-school programs, life skills training, mentorship initiatives, leadership development, and career guidance. These programs aim to equip young individuals with essential skills and support, enabling them to make positive choices and avoid engaging in gang-related activities and other social ills.
Sports and Recreational Activities: By engaging young people in sports and recreational activities, the department provides them with alternatives to gang involvement. Through partnerships with sports federations and clubs throughout the Western Cape, the department offers funding for club development, sports leagues, tournaments, and recreational events. These initiatives encourage youth participation and create safe spaces for physical activities.
Arts and Culture Programs: The promotion of arts and cultural activities offers young people creative outlets and platforms for self-expression. Through partnerships with NGOs, the department supports music, dance, theatre, and visual arts programs, which help channel their energy into constructive pursuits. Furthermore, the department operates over 375 library outlets throughout the province, providing safe spaces for vulnerable youth and offering programs like book clubs and educational initiatives.
Education and Skills Development: Recognising the importance of education and skills in preventing gang involvement, the department collaborates with educational institutions, NGOs, and businesses to provide educational support, vocational training, and job placement services. Initiatives such as the YearBeyond program contribute to keeping young people away from gangs by offering scholarships, internships, apprenticeships, and job-readiness programs.
Community Engagement and Outreach: The department's Museum service plays a vital role in creating platforms for dialogue, community engagement, identity formation, and a sense of belonging. Through workshops, seminars, and forums, the department addresses the root causes of gang involvement and raises awareness about available resources and support systems.
MPP Gillion Bosman said: “Combatting gang-activity requires multi-governmental cooperation, the DA-run Western Cape Government remains committed to providing social protective factors and mitigating risk-taking behaviours through these programs.
Keeping young people out of gang activity not only safeguards their well-being and future prospects but also contributes to the overall safety, stability, and development of communities, fostering a positive environment for growth, opportunities, and social cohesion.
As gang activity continues to persist in communities due to an incapable and understaffed SAPS, the DA-run Western Cape government remains dedicated to exploring additional strategies to combat this scourge.”
Issued by Gillion Bosman, DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Cultural Affairs and Sport, 17 July 2023
