Does crime differ in parts of Obs?

Florain Herremans, a 25 year-old Belgian student and Obsid intern, has recently helped the Observatory Improvement District (Obsid) develop a survey to understand whether there is a link between the types of crimes committed and the different districts forming the Special Ratings Area (SRA.)

The data collection will take place in two steps. First, an online questionnaire will be distributed via social networks (Facebook, Whatsapp).

Then in order to balance the sample, they will go through the neighbourhoods in which they lack data following the first phase of collection.

The answers will then be crossed with the Obsid's knowledge & statistics in order to create positive (or negative) correlations.

Ultimately, the goal is to deploy an action plan to improve the daily life of the community based on the conclusions drawn.

It is essential that residents are assured that all data collected will remain strictly confidential.

Florian, born in Ethiopia, has a MasteR's Degree in Public Administration and joined the Obsid as an intern for three months to understand the functioning of a public service.

What has impressed him the most since his arrival in Cape Town more than a month ago, was a visit to the Townships.

He said the contrast between the centre of Cape Town and Gugulethu or Langa is immense.

On one side, all the very modern aspects of a European or US urban centre can be found.

On the other, a feeling of abandonment dominates the majority.