​Thembisa Shologu
In February 2023, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi delivered his maiden State of the Province Address (SoPA), outlining five key priorities to reposition the province. 
Among these priorities, the fight against crime, corruption, lawlessness, and vandalism stood out in a province plagued by heartless and ruthless criminals.
One of the initiatives aimed at tackling lawlessness was the introduction of 6000 Crime Prevention Wardens (CPWs), affectionately known as 'AmaPanyaza,' in May 2023.
These CPWs underwent three months of rigorous training, a combination of theoretical coursework and physical fitness training in Cullinan, supervised by the Gauteng Police, Metro Police Department, and the South African Police Services (SAPS). Their primary responsibilities include foot patrols, stop-and-search operations, and infrastructure policing.
Lined up at Kwa-Thema Police Station, adorned in their distinctive military green uniforms, the wardens start their day at 6:00 AM, where they receive their schedules for the day ahead.
Naledi Moukange, born and bred in Kwa-Thema, found this opportunity as a warden to be a turning point in her life. She had been unemployed for four years before landing a position as an Administration Officer at Tshipi-Noto Financials.
This opportunity, she explains, serves as a stepping stone toward her dream career in law enforcement. 
"Through the training we received, I became a new individual. I have learned discipline more than anything else, how to present myself in a good manner, and I have grown as a person. 
"Since becoming a warden, I have learned new things every day. I like working and being around people, and this opportunity has given me that," said the 32-year-old. 
Naledi's new role involves being a Captain Shift, reporting to relevant departments about daily activities, overseeing warden attendance, ensuring adherence to rules and regulations, and monitoring uniform compliance. 
Additionally, she oversees the management of vehicles, which includes trip authorisations, log sheets, and reporting on any incidents involving the wardens.
"I have always wanted to be part of the law enforcement agencies, also looking up to both my parents, who are law enforcers. I enjoy mostly the administrative side of things, though.
"Since the inception of the programme, there has been a lot of improvement in the townships. I like serving the people and being part of those eliminating crime," she said. 
On this day, Gauteng Online spent a day with 'AmaPanyaza' to gain firsthand insight into how they carry out their duties. 
Their first stop was at Nkumbulo High School for a learner search, with a focus on uncovering illegal items, including weapons.
"The operation was a success. We did not find anything dangerous on the learners except for cigarettes. Everything went well," Naledi reported.
The team then proceeded to Tonk Metre, Kwa-Thema, on Habedi Street as part of Operation Shanela, aimed at reducing hijackings and house robberies in the province. This operation was conducted in collaboration with the SAPS and Ekurhuleni Metro Police. 
During the vehicle search, several stolen vehicles were recovered, and individuals with warrants of arrest or pending criminal cases were apprehended and transported to Kwa-Thema Police Station.
Another Warden, Gift Mabuza, revealed that their day starts between 5:45 and 6:00 AM, with briefings by Station Commanders or the highest-ranking officers in the SAPS outlining their daily schedule.
Like Naledi, Gift emphasised the positive impact on communities despite initial scepticism about the CPWs by some in the community.
"Remember, it was difficult for the SAPS to service or be visible to the whole community because they are short-staffed. 
"It is a known fact that the police ratio in Gauteng is one officer for over 500 citizens. Today, there is high police visibility since there are threats by the community wanting to chase away the foreign nationals for allegedly selling expired or poisonous goods just to prevent opportunistic activities like looting shops and stuff," said the 30-year-old warden.
This immersive experience with the 'AmaPanyaza' showcased their dedication and commitment to securing their communities and making Gauteng a safer place for all.