South Africa: Modern Technology to Help Fight Crime

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his Opening of Parliament Address, highlighted a data-driven approach to crime prevention as a top priority for South Africa’s seventh administration under the Government of National Unity (GNU). Emphasizing the need for capable law enforcement, he pledged to combat violent crime hotspots such as illegal mining, gang violence, and cash-in-transit heists through specialized police units. The administration will also focus on implementing the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, expanding victim support services, and enhancing land reform efforts by increasing funding, prioritizing state land transfers, and improving post-settlement support. Ramaphosa additionally addressed recent natural disasters, offering condolences to those affected by floods in the Western Cape and wildfires in KwaZulu-Natal, which claimed 14 lives and caused widespread devastation.