Community unites against GBV in Germiston march
"We hoped that the march would raise much needed awareness as we head towards the festive season.”
The Bertha Gxowa Care Centre hosted a peaceful march in Germiston as part of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.
The event brought together stakeholders including Germiston SAPS, Ekupholeni, Primrose Youth Desk, and several Gauteng provincial departments.
Participants distributed informational pamphlets on mental health, gender-based violence (GBV), domestic violence, and children’s rights to local residents.
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The 5km march started at the Bertha Gxowa care centre, passed through the Germiston taxi rank, and concluded at the Germiston SAPS station.
Community Engagement
Residents were engaged along the route in discussions about GBV and domestic violence.
Among those supporting the march were musician Themba Lukhele, known as Skeem GP, and Ward 35 Clr Ntuthuzeli Mpambani, who addressed participants at the Germiston Taxi Rank.
Sergeant Ramadimeta Ramakolo, GBV and domestic violence co-ordinator for Germiston SAPS, emphasized the importance of the campaign.
“This initiative is a declaration from SAPS that we will not tolerate criminality or mistreatment of women and children,” she said.
She noted that while GBV cases against men are increasing, only 2% of men report abuse.
“We urge all genders to report any abuse or violence. Our station is fully equipped to handle such cases.
Hotspot areas are regularly targeted for campaigns, and we believe alcohol and drugs contribute significantly to these issues,” added Ramakolo. She also announced a GBV door-to-door campaign scheduled for December 4.
During the campaign, men were encouraged to seek counseling and support.
“Men often remain silent about their struggles,” said Ramakolo.
“We aim to inspire women to take leadership and unite, just like the women of 1956. Support systems are vital in fighting abuse.”
Hazel Moagi from the Bertha Gxowa care centre urged rape victims to seek help within 72 hours to access medical assistance and prevent potential health risks.
“Our clinics provide services for both men and women, including mental health support and trauma counseling. We also collect medical evidence for rape cases and can testify in court when needed,” said Moagi.
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She added that rape cases, particularly those involving minors, are on the rise.
Sibongile Daba, from Ekupholeni Mental Health and Trauma Centre, highlighted the organisation’s efforts in combating GBV.
“In collaboration with stakeholders, we focus on social justice, gender equality, and strengthening community responses to trauma and violence.
“We provide counseling, therapy, and victim-friendly rooms at various police stations,” Daba said.
Ekupholeni also conducts door-to-door awareness campaigns in Primrose and Germiston, offering psychosocial services and referrals where necessary.
The peaceful march and associated campaigns aim to create a safer, more supportive community by encouraging victims to speak out and empowering residents with vital information.
As the festive season approaches, these initiatives serve as a reminder that violence and abuse will not be tolerated.
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