Johannesburg - The Gauteng government has announced a significant shift in its approach to crime prevention, phasing out the current iteration of the Crime Prevention Wardens, widely known as Amapanyaza. This decision comes amid ongoing scrutiny regarding the legitimacy and effectiveness of the unit.
What's Happening to the Amapanyaza?
Instead of being disbanded entirely, the wardens will be repurposed and integrated into the province's Traffic Police and Special Law Enforcement Unit (SLEU), as well as other security partners. This transition will involve extensive retraining over the next 18 to 36 months.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi launched the Amapanyaza in 2023, but the unit has faced criticism for lacking proper training and authority compared to fully qualified police officers. The government acknowledges that the current training hasn't adequately prepared the wardens for the demands of their roles.
No Warden Left Behind?
The Gauteng government has assured that no warden will be left unemployed. Those who do not qualify for the traffic police training will be reassigned to other municipalities for by-law enforcement. Premier Lesufi has emphasized his commitment to ensuring their continued employment, stating, "I will never allow them to be retrenched or unemployed. They have put their lives on the line to protect me and you."
- Extensive retraining program for qualified wardens.
- Redeployment to other government departments for those who don't qualify.
- Assurances of continued employment for all wardens.
Opposition Criticism
Despite the government's assurances, opposition parties in Gauteng have criticized the move, labeling it a waste of taxpayers' money.
The future of the Amapanyaza is now one of transformation, as the Gauteng government seeks to refine its crime prevention strategies and ensure the wardens are equipped with the necessary skills and authority to effectively serve the province.