The Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) has launched a new security initiative by insourcing its own security personnel, marking an important step towards strengthening the protection of municipal assets and improving service delivery. The move follows the expiry of contracts with four private security companies and is expected to provide greater operational control, better quality management and a smoother, more reliable security service.
The programme was officially launched by Executive Mayor Lusanda Sizani at Mzingisi Skweyiya Hall in Mlungisi, Komani recently. During the launch, the Mayor highlighted that employing security personnel directly allows them to become part of the municipality's mission, creating a stronger sense of responsibility and commitment while ensuring fair employment opportunities. “Direct employees feel a stronger connection to the institution and care more about its overall mission. Workers enjoy stable direct employment, fair salaries and standard benefits improving individual livelihoods. Long-term security guards become familiar with daily routines, staff members, and regular visitors, making it easier for them to identify unusual behaviour and promptly respond to potential security threats”, said Mayor Sizani.
As a six-month pilot project, the initiative has recruited 300 security personnel from across the district. They have already been deployed to protect municipal offices as well as critical water and sanitation infrastructure, helping to reduce vandalism and safeguard essential public services. If successful, the programme could lead to permanent employment opportunities in the future. One of the newly appointed security guards, Lungile David, remarked that he is now relieved that he will be able to provide for his family as a married man with kids.
Beyond improving security, the initiative is also creating jobs and restoring hope for many locals. By investing in people while protecting vital infrastructure, the Chris Hani District Municipality is taking a practical step towards building safer communities and improving the quality of services delivered to its residents.
