As the MMC responsible for operational matters in Region 3 of Tshwane, I am deeply concerned about the sharp increase of crime in and around the Voortrekker Monument.
The monument is one of Tshwane’s most prominent landmarks and is visited and enjoyed by local and international visitors alike. However, over the past few years, the Voortrekker Monument has experienced an increase in crime and vandalism, which has threatened the safety of employees and visitors, and the integrity of the monument itself.
Recently, I was shocked to learn that armed robberies occurred on two occasions where visitors and staff were involved. This is unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue unabated.
To address this matter, this morning I met with Dr Danie Langner, Managing Director of the Federasie van Afrikaanse Kultuurvereniginge (FAK) and the Voortrekker Monument, Cllr Shaun Wilkinson and other representatives from the Voortrekker Monument to discuss various options to increase security and keep the monument and the surrounding nature reserve safe for employees and visitors.
The meeting was extremely productive and I believe that we have laid a strong foundation for future collaboration. In the coming weeks we will workshop strategies on the way forward with several City departments, including those responsible for economic development, the environment, property and tourism.
I am also very impressed with the proactive measures that the monument has taken to ensure the safety of their staff and tourists who visit this iconic monument.
Taking the City’s current financial constraints into account, we now, more than ever, welcome non-governmental organisations and communities to take hands with the City and work together to bring about positive change.