The Salvation Army, YANA and various community stakeholders hosted a gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) dialogue at Shining Light Christian Centre on June 11 to raise awareness and equip residents with the knowledge needed to address the issue within their communities.

The event also introduced GBVF training offered through The Genix Institute. Participants who complete the programme will receive certificates that will enable them to serve as facilitators and advocates within the GBVF sector.

Many of the stakeholders involved have received similar training and actively participate in initiatives aimed at combating gender-based violence, which remains a growing concern in Thembisa.

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Event coordinator Bishop Michael Mtsali said the dialogue marked the beginning of a broader campaign to raise awareness and strengthen community action against GBVF.

“The training we are providing is focused on awareness and education. We want everyone who attends to leave with knowledge that they can share within their communities.

“It is difficult to raise awareness about an issue without proper training, which is why we are equipping participants with the skills and certification needed to become advocates against GBV,” said Mtsali.
He added that the dialogue forms part of a wider programme of activities planned for the coming months.

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“We are not ending here. We are planning a march later this month as part of our awareness campaign, and YANA will also be hosting programmes for survivors and beneficiaries affected by gender-based violence.

“Our goal as stakeholders is to continue collaborating with other organisations to fight GBV and create safer communities,” he said.

YANA founder Jabulile Maseko said community gatherings such as these are important in helping residents recognise the warning signs of abuse and understand how to respond.

“These engagements teach people about the signs of gender-based violence, particularly within relationships and families. The purpose is not to encourage divorces or break-ups, but to help people understand when a situation has become abusive and when it is necessary to seek help or leave for their own safety,” said Maseko.

She added that community involvement is essential in addressing the problem.

“We want to educate people to speak out when they witness abuse and to support those who may be suffering in silence. By working together, we can begin to reduce the prevalence of gender-based violence in our communities,” she said.

The dialogue formed part of ongoing efforts by local organisations to educate residents, support survivors and strengthen community responses to gender-based violence and femicide.