Business Against Crime (BAC) South Africa was established in 1996 as a solution to then president Nelson Mandela’s invitation to business to join the government’s fight against crime. Today, we proudly reflect a unique partnership between business and government at all levels, one that is regarded as one of the best practices of its kind internationally.

Business Against Crime Eastern Cape was founded in 1997 in the belief that the collective application of resources provided by individual companies to address blockages within the criminal justice system would be more effective than individual efforts. Our primary role has been the neutral facilitation and project management of the integrated approach to problem solving within the criminal justice system.

The Integrated Justice System Court Centre is the fulfilment of the drive and determination of committed individuals and teams within the criminal justice system to achieve the mandated vision of addressing blockages and drastically improving service delivery to the community of the Eastern Cape.

The research monograph is a record of the impact of this unique partnership between business and government in the Eastern Cape, with particular focus on the Integrated Justice System Court Centre in Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Metropole, South Africa. Seen as a shining light in our nation, the centre was officially launched by Dr Penuell Maduna, Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development, on 17 August 2001.

The sound relationships built within the project have born fruit to the benefit of all role-players involved. We express our sincere appreciation to the South African Police Service, Departments of Justice, Correctional Services and Social Development for their dedication to the success of this national priority initiative.

We are deeply grateful to Martin Schönteich of the Institute for Security Studies for his invaluable research and the compilation of this monograph.

It is hoped that this monograph will contribute to a better understanding of the challenges faced by the criminal justice system in the South African context, and that it will encourage policy makers and practitioners to consider the implementation of an integrated approach to problem solving, planning and resourcing in a bid to improve service delivery to the community.

Kevin J Hustler
Managing Director
Business Against Crime
Eastern Cape