Honeydew SAPS hosts 16 Days of Activism talk for safer communities

The Honeydew and Diepsloot SAPS hosted a meaningful community event on November 27 at Emthonjeni Community Centre as part of the 16 Days of Activism for no violence against women and children campaign.

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The programme brought together law enforcement, community members, and organisations to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV), share resources, and promote healing and empowerment.

The event began with an opening prayer followed by a warm welcome and introduction.

A series of presentations tackled important issues, including justice, mental health, and economic independence.
Among the speakers were Thandiwe Mahlangu, from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), who highlighted mental health challenges faced by survivors of GBV and the importance of support systems, Phumzile Mnise, from the local victim assistance programme, who detailed available services for those affected by violence, and Asnath Matshavha, from Economic Development, who discussed the role of financial independence in empowering women.

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Ward 114 councillor David Mangena also attended the event stating: “Today’s initiative is a good initiative, but we need to do it more often to spread the message against GBV as far as possible.”

A GBV survivor, Tinyiko Mathebula, shared her emotional story about how she survived multiple stabs across her body from her partner at the time, offering hope and strength to those present.

An officer from the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), Sergeant Bafana Ndimande, addressed the crowd, discussing law enforcement’s efforts and the role of initiatives like Men for Change in promoting safer communities. The programme also included moments of lightness and connection through entertainment which included a dance group and Noxolo Hlongwane presenting a heartfelt poem about GBV that warranted a standing ovation from the audience, reinforcing the day’s focus on hope and resilience.

A section titled: Divine Interventions, provided spiritual support, with messages from various local pastors, who spoke on healing and restoration, while highlighting the importance of justice and accountability. The programme was then concluded with a passionate prayer.

This event highlighted the SAPS’s dedication to working with communities to address GBV and promote meaningful change. Residents left inspired to play their part in creating a safer and more supportive society.

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