Gauteng government defends Amapanyaza programme amid criticism

Crime prevention wardens taking part in a parade at Tsakane Stadium, in Ekurhuleni, in June 2023. Picture: Michel Bega The Gauteng Provincial Government has pushed back against what it calls misleading attacks on its Traffic Wardens initiative, insisting the “Amapanyaza” programme is central to the province’s law enforcement strategy and economic empowerment agenda. The Gauteng Provincial Government is standing firm in its defence of the Traffic Wardens programme, rejecting criticism aimed at discrediting an initiative it says remains vital to building safer communities across the province.

Government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the backlash against the programme misrepresents its purpose and impact. “The initiative remains a critical intervention in strengthening community safety, visible policing and law enforcement capacity across the province,” he said. With public pressure mounting over crime, lawlessness and traffic violations, the provincial government says it has responded with deliberate action rather than retreat.

The recruitment, training and deployment of Traffic Wardens form part of a broader provincial strategy to build sustainable law enforcement capacity and restore public trust in safety institutions. Mhlanga said the programme was designed with long-term impact in mind. “The programme forms part of the province’s broader strategy to build sustainable law enforcement capacity, improve coordination between security agencies and restore public confidence in safety interventions,” he said.

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He added that the expenditure linked to the programme covers far more than salaries, encompassing comprehensive training, accommodation, uniforms, transport, stipends, operational support and Peace Officer training. These are all aimed at ensuring recruits are properly equipped to carry out their duties within the law. Despite claims that the programme is wasteful or ineffective, the government says wardens are making a tangible difference across the province.

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