Community patrols bring hope to Orange Farm amid rising crime

In Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, frustration over slow emergency response and rising crime has led residents to take matters into their own hands.

FixLocal journalist Ufrieda Ho explains that around 400 volunteers, men and women in reflective vests, now patrol the streets on foot and bicycle, acting as the eyes and ears of the police.

Although unarmed and unpaid, Ho says these patrollers are credited with fostering unity and vigilance in a community that local authorities have long neglected.

"Why we highlighted this story was, yes, it's about fighting crime, but really also understanding that we first have to address the underlying needs of a community if you are to build community activism, stronger communities. In this case, with Orange Farm, it was a lot about people who are unemployed and their immediate needs. It starts casting a light on how we actually inspire communities when they feel so despairing, especially if you're up against gangsterism and violence. We know the murder rate [and] gender-based violence in Orange Farm is particularly high "

The initiative, supported by local businesses and the non-profit organisation RADA (Rape, Alcohol, and Drug Abuse), provides not only safety but also empowerment.

Volunteers receive food parcels, training, and workshops that help some transition into formal employment.

"So, understanding that when people are unemployed and you're asking them to actually take care of each other, take care of their community, they're also really looking at the immediate needs of how to put food on the table tonight," says Ho.

The project also includes women-only patrols to better address gender-based violence, one of the area’s most pressing challenges.

While official crime statistics in Orange Farm remain discouraging, residents and organisers argue the effort is not in vain.

To listen to Ho in conversation with 702's Bongani Bingwa, use the audio player below: