The Safer Cities Global Challenge

More than 4 billion people live in urban areas around the world, and for many, safety is far from guaranteed. In South Africa, crime is not just a threat to daily life—it is an economic burden costing the country an estimated R700 billion each year, or about 10% of its GDP. With over half of all violent crimes happening in metropolitan areas, the need for effective, inclusive, and sustainable safety solutions has never been greater.

In response, Haq Investment Holdings, in association with Unica—one of South Africa’s top industrial groups—is taking bold action. The company is launching a new security venture that aims to redefine how safety is delivered, using advanced technology, innovative business models, and strong community involvement. As part of this effort, they have launched the Safer Cities Global Challenge, a global innovation initiative seeking breakthrough solutions that can form the foundation of this new company.

Why This Matters

South Africa ranks fifth in the world for crime, with a Crime Index score of 74.6. Cities like Pietermaritzburg have been labeled the most dangerous globally. The public safety system is severely stretched, with just 150,000 police officers responsible for 60 million citizens. In contrast, the private security sector has exploded, employing over 2.7 million people. However, these services are often unaffordable for most, costing anywhere from R500 to R2,000 per month for households and even more for businesses. The result is a divided system—those who can pay are protected, while the rest are left vulnerable.

The Challenge

The Safer Cities Global Challenge invites individuals and teams to submit practical, affordable, and scalable ideas that can help launch a next-generation security company. The aim is to make safety accessible for all—not just those who can afford it.

The challenge is split into two phases:

• Phase 1 (now open): Participants have one month to submit a proposal outlining their idea.

• Phase 2 (for selected participants): Over two months, teams will develop their concepts into detailed solutions.

Deadline for Phase 1 submission: November 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC.

What the Organizers Are Looking For

Participants can submit ideas under four different innovation tracks. The solutions should be designed to work within South Africa’s real-world conditions, including:

• Unstable internet access

• Wide variety of smartphone types

• Multiple local languages

• Urban and peri-urban environments

Successful solutions should:

• Comply with South African laws and regulations (like PSIRA and POPIA)

• Integrate easily with existing systems

• Be affordable, effective, and scalable

• Build trust within communities

• Generate recurring revenue

The project’s bold targets include:

• A 30% reduction in crime rates in key hotspots

• Creation of at least 5,000 new jobs in the security sector

Who Can Join

The challenge is open to everyone—individuals, startups, established companies, researchers, or community groups. Team entries are allowed, with one designated representative responsible for communications and submissions.

Selected contributors may have the opportunity to:

• Join the founding team of the new security company

• Serve as technical advisors

• Form long-term strategic partnerships

How to Get Involved

Participants must submit a short video and presentation outlining their solution via the challenge platform hosted on F6S.

This is more than just a challenge—it is a chance to co-create a safer, more equal future. With over R50 billion spent annually on private security in South Africa, the opportunity for innovation and impact is massive.

Learn more and submit your proposal before November 15, 2025.

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