Evaluation of the implementation of the Jo'burg City Safety Strategy (JCSS)

Abstract

This evaluation has sought to take into account the complex and challenging environment in which all new strategies have to be implemented in the South African context in its assessment of the implementation of the Jo'burg City Safety Strategy (JCSS). The study has therefore adopted a qualitative approach to assessment which combines interviews with key stakeholders, focus groups with implementing agents, documentary evidence provided by the JCSP Office and a literature review. The HSRC conducted a total of 15 interviews with a range of stakeholders involved in the implementation of the JCSS who were identified by the Jo'burg City Safety programme office. In addition two focus groups were held with Strategy implementers in specific geographical focus areas (GFAs), namely Norwood/Orange Grove and Moroka in Soweto, in order to understand the implementation of the strategy at a local level. These focus groups provided useful insights that were integrated into a broader analysis of the approach and methodology used in the GFAs, as specified in the terms of reference. In addition, the focus groups as well as interviews contributed to the section of the report on cross-cutting themes. Every effort was made to systematically incorporate a range of stakeholders who might be able to shed light on the implementation of the Strategy . The HSRC also studied the background documentary material and records provided by the Jo'burg City programme office in order to inform and complement the qualitative interviews.