CapeTown, Following the success of LEAP and Project 1000, Cape Town is set to make its biggest investment in safety and security yet. The Mayor will present the Draft Budget for 2025/26 at next week’s Council meeting, outlining major enhancements to protect residents and improve emergency response.
The budget includes a significant boost for Fire and Rescue Services, adding more firefighters to tackle the rising number of fires. Every ward in Cape Town will also receive a dedicated team of fully trained and equipped Metro Police officers, working closely with SAPS, community structures, and neighborhood watch groups to strengthen local safety.
Additional enforcement will be deployed along the N2 and surrounding areas, prioritizing commuter safety. The city is also shifting away from private security, instead investing in uniformed, armed enforcement officers with policing powers to secure community facilities and protect repair teams during service operations.
To combat violent crime, Cape Town is establishing its own Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, expanding its existing Tactical Response Unit in the fight against gangsterism and organized crime.
Emergency response services will be reinforced, with more call takers added to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre—now a first choice for those in distress due to ongoing challenges at the national 10111 call center.
Beyond security, the budget will also support economic growth by enhancing the Events department, speeding up event approvals, and attracting more business to Cape Town. With the events sector already contributing 45,000 job opportunities, this move aims to further stimulate the local economy.
This marks the largest investment in safety and security since the launch of LEAP and the FIFA World Cup in 2010. Residents will have the opportunity to share their views during the public participation phase—stay tuned and make your voice heard!
Facebook Comments