On 10 December, the Uniting Reformed Church hosted a vibrant awareness campaign as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
The event was organized by SAPS Orange Farms in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Department of Community Safety, Community Police Forum, Department of Health, Parliamentary Constituency Office, faith-based organizations, Childline, GBV Brigades, Khoroni Men’s Forum, NISSA, Africa Tikkun social workers, Isiqus-omama, and the Tshaba Tsohle Tradition and Initiation Organisation (TTTIT).
Its main goal was to raise awareness, educate residents on reporting gender-based violence, and provide support to victims.The campaign began at 9am with a community walk from the church to the Multi-Purpose Centre in Ext 6a. During the walk, pamphlets were distributed to residents, detailing how to report cases of gender-based violence and femicide.
The initiative highlighted pressing issues in the community, including sexual offences, child safety, substance abuse, domestic violence, femicide, and violence against women and children – concerns that often rise during the festive season.
Following the walk, residents participated in community engagement and service-oriented activities at the church, receiving information, guidance, and resources. The campaign forms part of the national 16 Days of Activism initiative and aligns with the SAPS Gender-Based Violence Command Centre, emphasizing the importance of sensitizing communities, building trust, reducing crime, and supporting victims through the Victim-Friendly Facility at Orange Farms Police Station.
Station commander Brigadier MJ Manamela stressed that there must be zero tolerance for gender-based violence offences. He praised all stakeholders for their continued dedication and collective efforts in raising awareness and engaging the community to end gender-based violence and femicide.
