As crime continues to ravage communities across South Africa, a North-West University (NWU) researcher has highlighted how indigenous languages play an active role in strengthening crime prevention efforts through communication strategies in rural areas.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong, a research support coordinator at the NWU, is focusing her research on how indigenous languages are being used by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to communicate safety and crime prevention messages in rural communities. She examines how the choice of language influences understanding, engagement and participation in crime prevention activities.

“Crime prevention depends on effective communication that is easily comprehensible, engaging and trustworthy for communities. When safety information is shared in a way that reflects the language, culture and everyday realities of the community, people are more likely to pay attention, respond appropriately and take proactive steps to protect themselves and others,” says Dr Bosilong. “When safety messages are delivered in indigenous languages, they reflect the lived experiences of the people they are meant to reach.”

Her study draws on secondary data to explore how SAPS engages rural communities. she investigated how safety and crime prevention messages are conveyed and understood among community members.

According to Dr Bosilong, indigenous languages influence how different political and social actors participate in crime prevention efforts. “Language affects how messages are received,” she says. “It determines whether people relate to the information shared with them.”

Her research found that communication in local indigenous language supports dialogue between the police and residents. “Indigenous languages create shared meaning,” Dr Bosilong explains. “They enable communities to engage in discussions about safety and crime prevention.”

Recognising the role of indigenous languages can strengthen communication between SAPS and rural communities. “Language forms part of the broader strategy to address crime,” she says. “It connects institutions and the communities they serve.”

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong