Duncan Village - Eastern Cape MEC for Transport and Safety, Ghishma Barry has urged the youth to be in the frontline against crime.
"Indeed at this trying time of our young democracy, we need new energies, vigour and enthusiasm in order to effectively deal with the social challenges that continue to impede our progress as a nation," MEC Barry said.
The MEC was addressing the youth at a Boxing against Crime Tournament and the launch of a neighbourhood watch programme on Saturday at Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape.
The MEC called on youth to participate actively in programs aimed at fighting crime that her department will be implementing.
She appealed to the young people to inculcate a culture to serve the community and public property, while simultaneously promoting peace, security and comfort.
"We have adopted Duncan Village for the past two years as one of the townships that needed strong support in terms of crime prevention initiatives with a particular focus on youth mobilisation against crime," she added.
Ms Barry announced that as they gear up for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, her department plans to recruit 500 volunteers to assist in crowd control and general customer care, especially in public viewing areas. The viewing areas will be set up in Buffalo City, Makana, Matatiele, Lady Grey and Port St Johns.
"This is an opportunity for local youth to participate in hosting a successful first ever African world cup," Ms Barry said.
Eastern Cape Youth Commissioner, Sinethemba Mashalaba further urged the youth to be whistleblowers and work closely with the police in uprooting crime in their communities.
Mr Mashalaba appealed to young people to participate in Community Police Forums (CPFs).
"It's your responsibility to ensure that your communities are safe," she told the young people who attended the event.
Mr Mashalaba said youth must focus on accessing education rather than being involved in criminal activities. He advised them to make use of the government bursaries and internship programmes.
