Mitchell’s Plain safety and development plan: proposed budget submitted for approval
David Marthinus, deputy chief education specialist management at Metro South Education District, said at the meeting on Wednesday, October 22, that at times there was a disconnect in communication, with information coming through the district office.
Image: Supplied
A proposed budget for the implementation of the Mitchell’s Plain Safety and Development Plan has been compiled and submitted to the Western Cape Provincial Treasury for approval.
The follow-up meeting was held on Wednesday, October 22, at Mitchell's Plain police station's boardroom.
“The allocations are still under review, with final confirmations expected once the Western Cape Provincial Treasury completes its assessment,” said Kurt Nefdt, acting media liaison officer to Anroux Marais, Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety.
The plan, which emerged from consultations between the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety and key stakeholders in July, aims to address safety, youth development, and community cohesion in Mitchell’s Plain, ("Mitchell’s Plain stakeholders map safety and development priorities" Plainsman September 30, "Mitchell’s Plain Safety and Development Forum to be formed with community-led criteria" Plainsman September 10, "Mitchell’s Plain safety plan moves forward with community input" Plainsman August 27 and "Stakeholders to refine Mitchell’s Plain safety plan ahead of budget deadline" Plainsman August 14).
Follow-up sessions have refined the plan, including the proposal to establish the Mitchell’s Plain Safety and Development Forum to oversee its rollout. Applications to serve on the f,orum closed on Friday October 24, and a selection panel will identify suitable candidates.
Internal engagements across Western Cape Government departments have clarified roles and responsibilities to ensure a coordinated, whole-of-government approach.
High-level briefings with premier Alan Winde, mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis,Ms Marais, and the City's mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith have aligned provincial and city leadership, said Mr Nefdt.
Engagements with sub-council chairpersons and local ward councillors are also planned to ensure broad participation, said Mr Nefdt.
A key highlight of the meeting was programmes for the boy child.
Lynn Phillips said more than 40% of young people in Mitchell’s Plain struggle with substance abuse. “We want to make Mitchell’s Plain a better home for everyone,” said Ms Phillips, stressing mentorship and structured support.
Wesley Moodley from the Bishop Lavis Centre of Excellencesaid: “We hope to come alongside these initiatives to give young people structure and opportunities they currently lack."
Wesley Moodley from the Bishop Lavis Centre of Excellence.
Image: Supplied
David Marthinus, deputy chief education specialist management at Metro South Education District, said there is sometimes a disconnect in communication, with information coming through the district office.
“We have access to advocacy, where the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) can drive this, provided by a framework,” he said.
He said that the boy child has often been forgotten, and programmes are being explored to address this issue in schools.
Sports programmes and structures for all codes were also discussed to promote recreation and personal development, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for inclusivity and structured engagement.
The next steps include appointing forum leaders, mapping departmental programmes, and launching the plan in a phased manner to ensure sustainable impact for Mitchell’s Plain.