IN a powerful display of community solidarity, Umbilo Congregational Church recently hosted a highly informative and well-attended Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Awareness Day. The event, held as a cornerstone of the local observances for the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” brought together a coalition of essential stakeholders to educate, support, and empower attendees.

The programme featured a series of structured and impactful presentations from key organisations dedicated to combating GBVF and its related social ills. The stakeholders included Lifeline & the NPA Umlazi Thuthuzela Care Centre, who provide crucial insight into survivor support, trauma counselling, and the legal processes for seeking justice.

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The Drug Free World highlighted the clear link between substance abuse and violence, and promoted preventative education. The Durban South Baptist Church and Bulwer / Glenwood Safety Urban Regeneration Forum demonstrated the vital role of faith-based and community organisations in fostering safe spaces and offering rehabilitation. Most importantly, for victims of violence, the Brighton Beach SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit outlined the critical steps for reporting offences and the specialised police services available to victims.

The event was presided over by The Reverend Chris Pieterse and The Steward Colonel Thuli Mvuyana (Retired), who underscored the moral imperative for the community to stand united against the scourge of gender-based violence.

Heather Roos of Bulwer / Glenwood Safety Urban Regeneration Forum threw her weight behind the awareness, saying, “GBV&F is a subject we as communities should be taking very seriously. More time and attention should be spent on this, not just once a year for 16 days of Activism Against Women and Child Abuse. The government also needs to look at more safe houses accessible to each community and available after hours and on weekends as that is when most abuse occurs.”

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“The success of this day was a testament to what we can achieve when we collaborate,” said a church member. “The presentations were not only informative but also sparked meaningful dialogue. We are deeply grateful to all the stakeholders for their unwavering commitment. The shared experience was so positive that every roleplayer has expressed eagerness to reconvene and build on this foundation for an even bigger event next year.”

“The resounding success and collective commitment to future action signal a significant and ongoing effort within communities to break the cycle of violence, support survivors, and foster a culture of safety and respect for all,” Pieterse concluded.

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