Saldanha Bay Municipality and SBSI host Integrated Prayer Service in Observance of 16 Days of Activism Against Violence

On Tuesday, 10 December 2024, the Saldanha Bay Municipality, in collaboration with the Saldanha Bay Safety Initiative (SBSI), hosted an Integrated Prayer Service at the Louwville Civic Centre in Vredenburg. This event marked the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence and Abuse of Women and Children, with the theme “A Day of Honour.”

The purpose of the service was to unite individuals from the safety and security sector—uniformed officers and affiliated personnel—in prayer for God’s intervention, protection, and blessings. Participants also prayed for the success of their efforts to safeguard the community.

Community Safety Coordinator for Saldanha Bay Municipality, Joey Pieters, emphasised the importance of addressing crime not only through physical action but also through spiritual support.

The event was attended by representatives from various law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Correctional Services, Military Police, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Department of Health, municipal and provincial traffic services, local private security companies such as Fidelity ADT and Alex Alarms, church leaders, Community Police Forum (CPF) members, neighbourhood watch groups, school volunteers, and members of the local community.

A key moment in the service was the lighting of a candle by SAPS Chaplain Reverend Heymans, symbolizing the collective commitment to the cause. This was followed by an encouraging address from Cllr. Michael Schaffers, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Corporate and Public Safety Services. Pastor Swiegelaar delivered a sermon focused on honour and hope for the community.

Joey Pieters commended the SBSI partners for their unwavering dedication to safety in the area. He acknowledged the challenges faced by those on the front lines, particularly in high-risk areas, and urged them to remain guided by their core values and principles. Pieters stressed that success in the fight against crime and lawlessness is vital to the community’s safety and well-being.

The Saldanha Bay Municipality, which plays a coordinating role in these efforts, expressed gratitude to all SBSI partners for their continued commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents.