The City of Ekurhuleni Women’s Directorate, under the mayor’s office, hosted a candlelight prayer at the Germiston Civic Centre parking area on November 25 to officially launch the annual 16 Days of Activism.

This campaign is aimed at no violence against women and children. It seeks to raise awareness, mobilise support, and channel resources towards ending violence against women and children. Attendees lit candles while dressed in black as a symbol of unity and remembrance.

The city’s MMC for Development Planning and Real Estate, who is also responsible for the Women’s Directorate, Nomadlozi Nkosi, addressed the gathering and called for an end to the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV).

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She urged parents, teachers, and church leaders to prioritise the safety and well-being of vulnerable groups, including people living with disabilities, children, and the elderly. Nkosi also encouraged civil organisations to continue partnering with law enforcement to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

Meanwhile, City of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza echoed the call for decisive action to end all forms of abuse. He emphasised that the most vulnerable members of society continue to suffer disproportionately.

“This is the reason we, as South Africa, are still championing the safety of all our people equally across gender, age, race, and sexuality. No one deserves to be abused or violated in any form or shape,” said Xhakaza.

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“From today (November 25), which is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, until December 10, International Human Rights Day, we join the country and the world in raising our voices against gender-based violence.”

Xhakaza described the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide as a noble cause requiring active participation from every individual.

“It is humanly right and correct that individually we become engines of change. This will aid greater impactful change among our neighbours,” he said.

He reaffirmed the city’s commitment to creating safer communities through awareness campaigns and ensuring that healthcare centres treat GBV survivors with empathy and respect.

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“This year’s theme, ‘Unite to end digital violence against all women and girls’, calls on all residents, corporates, and social media users to be champions of change,” he added.

“Let us remember how South Africa overcame apartheid through consistent, collective action. The social ill we face now requires the same collaborative spirit, whether in our communities, on the internet, or in our boardrooms.”

“Together, every day, let us talk less and act decisively against any form of gender-based violence, abuse, and femicide,” said Xhakaza.