Industry organisations Agri SA and Business Against Crime South Africa (Bacsa) have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration on rural crime and safety data to improve the evidence available to law enforcement, policymakers and the agriculture sector in identifying, investigating and prosecuting crime.

The partnership establishes a framework for the collection, validation, analysis and reporting of rural crime data, leaning on Bacsa’s flagship E2-Plus crime-fighting platform.

By combining the expertise and networks of organised agriculture and the broader business community, Agri SA and Bacsa aim to improve the national evidence base needed to address crime in rural South Africa.

Agri SA says rural crime extends beyond individual farming businesses. "It threatens food production and food safety, undermines investment, disrupts rural economies and affects the safety and wellbeing of rural communities and their livelihoods. The situation requires effective responses that are built on credible, timely and evidence-based information."

Under the terms of the agreement, Agri SA and Bacsa will jointly gather data and analyse rural crime trends to produce co-authored reports, submissions and public statements based on verified evidence and information. The organisations will also engage with the South African Police Service throughout, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the National Rural Safety Priority Committee and other relevant institutions.

"Rural safety is fundamental to food security, economic growth and the sustainability of agriculture. By strengthening the evidence base and working alongside our partners in business and law enforcement, we can support more informed decision-making and contribute to safer rural communities," says Agri SA CEO Johann Kotzé.

Bacsa CEO Advocate Anton du Plessis adds that the partnership will see stronger collaboration between organised business, organised agriculture and law enforcement. "By combining our expertise and information, we can improve the quality of rural crime data and rural safety data and support coordinated and effective responses to crime."