The Are Aganeng Organisation hosted a parental dialogue on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) at Sarafina Hall on Thursday, October 22, bringing together community members and stakeholders to raise awareness and encourage collective action against violence.

The event, held under the theme Building Safer Families and Communities Through Dialogue, Awareness and Collective Action Against GBVF, aimed to encourage open discussions about gender-based violence and the role families and communities can play in creating safer environments.

Representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS), JB Marks Local Municipality, Vuyani and Soks Security Company, the Department of Social Development and the Department of Health were among the stakeholders involved in the programme.

The dialogue provided an opportunity for community members to engage with stakeholders on issues surrounding gender-based violence and the importance of working together to address the problem.

The National Youth Services and the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture were also involved in the event, which included the celebration of National Book Month.

Authors and writers were invited to showcase their work and encourage a greater interest in reading among community members.

Organisers highlighted that seven libraries in Potchefstroom and five in Ventersdorp offer free services to the public. Residents, including children and adults, were encouraged to make use of these facilities and develop a love for reading.

The initiative highlighted the importance of both community awareness and access to educational resources in building safer, more informed communities.

The programme concluded with an award ceremony, words of encouragement and a vote of thanks, followed by lunch.

Through initiatives such as these, the Are Aganeng Organisation continues to promote dialogue, awareness and collective responsibility in the fight against gender-based violence and femicide.