City celebrates success in the Learn-to-Swim Programme
16 October 2024
Following the City’s successful inter-agency skills exchange programme with SANParks and the SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services earlier this year, the City has completed the next phase of the Learn-to-Swim programme. This initiative is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to enhancing water safety and preventing drownings along Cape Town’s coastline and freshwater areas
A total of 35 candidates (12 women and 23 men) from the northern section of Table Mountain National Park participated in the second phase of the programme. This represents a crucial step in a broader plan to extend the programme to other sections of the park, with the goal of equipping all SANParks Rangers with essential water safety skills.
‘By equipping our SANParks Rangers with these critical water safety skills, we’re not only protecting them, but also the countless visitors to our beautiful natural sites. This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in ensuring the safety of our communities,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.
The first phase, led by SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), provided foundational training in water safety awareness. The second phase, led by the City, focused on swim training and participants have now received certificates of completion, marking their achievement.
The training, held at Long Street Swimming Pool, covered three groups: those not yet comfortable in the water, those moderately skilled and those looking to refine their abilities. Over August and September this year, each participant attended two intensive training sessions per week. SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services supplied equipment to support the training.
The Drowning Prevention Programme Stream Lead for Education and Awareness has been actively involved in this initiative, reinforcing the City’s commitment to fostering a culture of water safety.
This programme is part of the City's broader drowning prevention efforts and the collaboration between the City, SANParks and SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services continues to be an exemplary model of inter-agency co-operation.
In addition, the Recreation and Parks Department is committed to promoting drowning prevention through learn-to-swim programmes at all municipal pools, as well as actively partnering with Cape Town Aquatics and various local clubs to expand these initiatives within communities.
The total participation in the 2023/24 learn-to-swim programmes stands at 4,065, reflecting the Department's ongoing dedication to community engagement and safety.
Interested community members are encouraged to enquire at their local swimming pool about learn-to-swim programmes available for both adults and children.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
