In a powerful demonstration of what President Cyril Ramaphosa termed “Bana Pele” – children first- in the recent State of the Nation Address, the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF) celebrated 118 learners from Mthombo Secondary School at the Mpumalanga Awards Ceremony of its Communities and Justice Programme (CJP).
Rooted in the principle of shared humanity and collective upliftment, the CJP exemplifies how public-private partnerships can drive tangible impact in disadvantaged communities. By integrating justice education, social responsibility, and financial literacy, the programme equips learners with tools to navigate both civic and economic realities with confidence.
A cornerstone of the programme’s success is the contribution of the multiple partners including Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison, the Department of Justice, the Department of Correctional Services, the South African Police Service and the Banking Association South Africa (BASA), which delivers essential financial literacy training. This component ensures that learners understand budgeting, responsible spending, saving, and long-term financial planning, empowering them to make informed decisions that shape their futures.
“Ubuntu is not just a philosophy; it is action. It is the willingness of institutions and individuals to work together selflessly for the betterment of young people. The Communities and Justice Programme embodies this spirit,” said Rt Rev Col Gicks Moyane (ret), Provincial Coordinator for SSAF in Mpumalanga.
The ceremony underscored how collaboration between educators, families, community policing structures, and private sector partners strengthens social cohesion and promotes safer environments.
“We are deeply grateful for the support extended to our learners. This programme has instilled confidence and responsibility, while the financial literacy training opens doors to economic empowerment many of our learners would not otherwise access,” said Mr Mfana Phiri, SGB Representative at Mthombo Secondary School.
As SSAF continues to expand the Communities and Justice Programme across provinces, the foundation remains committed to fostering empowered, informed, and socially responsible youth, proving that when communities act together, transformation follows.
