Producers in the PHA say rising crime is crippling operations and threatening jobs. The Philippi Horticultural Area (PHA), one of Cape Town’s most productive farming zones, is facing a surge in crime that farmers say is crippling operations and putting hundreds of jobs and small traders at risk. Ward 43 councillor and Sub-council 17 chairperson Elton Jansen said the Western Cape Government-commissioned 2018 Indego Report, later endorsed by the City, confirmed the PHA’s economic weight.
He noted that Philippi Groente Verpakkers alone “provides jobs for more than 600 people… I don’t have to tell you how many families are empowered by them alone.” The PHA also supports township informal traders, who rely on its fresh produce. Farmers told national Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen during a November visit that rising crime is now their biggest threat. “This area is under sieged and threatens the future of this economic hub and jobs, we need to make a concerted effort to make it safe,” Jansen said.
He warned that the policing gap leaves the PHA exposed whenever violence erupts in neighbouring Hanover Park. “Philippi SAPS also covers the gang ridden area of Hanover Park. When there are gang wars and shooting in Hanover Park the rest of the PHA which includes residential areas Schaapkraal, Highlands Estate, Knole Park, are left totally vulnerable to crime.” Jansen is pushing for a dedicated SAPS satellite station in the area, backed by City law enforcement and Metro Police. Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, the city deploys officers but acknowledged the PHA’s concern.
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