On Friday, September 5, more than 350 residents gathered at Blyvooruitsigt NG Kerk for a community imbizo hosted by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA). The event focused on key issues including service delivery, economic empowerment, and the urgent fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

Representatives from various government departments attended, including Labour, Health, Trade and Industry, Community Safety, as well as Are Ageng Social Services, IEC, CPF patrollers, ward councillors, and the Carletonville SAPS.

Miss Nompilo from the Department of Labour encouraged residents to regularly check for job opportunities and to register their businesses to access economic support programs.

SAPS Social Crime Prevention and Domestic Violence Coordinator, Sergeant Thabo Mathebula, addressed the community about the growing problem of GBV, describing it as a “second pandemic.” He urged all victims, including men, to come forward and seek help, emphasizing that abuse takes many forms beyond physical violence.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, providing residents the opportunity to raise concerns directly with officials. The imbizo strengthened community-government relations and reinforced a shared commitment to safety, empowerment, and accountability.