AgriSA and Business Against Crime South Africa partner to strengthen rural crime information
AgriCulture South Africa (AgriSA) and Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on rural crime data and rural safety data to improve the evidence available to law enforcement, policymakers and the agricultural sector in tackling this problem.
The partnership establishes a framework for the collection, validation, analysis and reporting of rural crime data, leaning on BACSA’s flagship E2-Plus crime-fighting platform. By combining the expertise and networks of organised agriculture and the broader business community, AgriSA and BACSA aim to strengthen the national evidence base needed to address crime in rural South Africa.
Rural crime extends beyond individual farming businesses. It threatens food production and food safety, undermines investment, disrupts rural economies and affects the safety and wellbeing of rural communities and their livelihoods. The situation requires effective responses that are built on credible, timely and evidence-based information.
Under the agreement, AgriSA and BACSA/E2-Plus will jointly gather data and analyse rural crime trends and produce co-authored reports, submissions and public statements based on verified evidence and information and will engage with the South African Police Service throughout, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the National Rural Safety Priority Committee and other relevant institutions.
The partnership is founded on lawful cooperation and evidence-based action. All information sharing will comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and applicable legal requirements.
“Rural safety is fundamental to food security, economic growth and the sustainability of agriculture. By strengthening the evidence base and working alongside our partners in business and law enforcement, we can support more informed decision-making and contribute to safer rural communities,” says Johann Kotzé, Chief Executive Officer of AgriSA.
“This partnership strengthens the collaboration between organised business, organised agriculture and law enforcement. By combining our expertise and information, we can improve the quality of rural crime data and rural safety data and support coordinated and effective responses to crime,” says Adv Anton du Plessis, Chief Executive Officer of BACSA.
Enquiries