Community marches against gender-based violence following assault of young girl
Outraged by the assault of a young girl, Randfontein residents and activists united in a powerful march demanding justice and an end to gender-based violence.
Following the sexual assault of a six-year-old girl, a wave of public outrage prompted the Seventh Day Adventist Students Association (SDASA) and residents to take a stand against gender-based violence (GBV).
• Also read: Mohlakeng lights up in support of GBV victims
On April 7, the community marched from the Mohlakeng Four Square Taxi Rank to the Gauteng West Education Department’s offices, where a memorandum was handed over by SDASA representative Lwazi Dlamini to department official David Manwane.
We demand that perpetrators be held accountable and the department prioritises the safety of children,” said Dlamini during the handover.
In response, Manwane committed to forwarding the memorandum to the highest offices in Krugersdorp, expressing his support for the cause.
The march was backed by several leaders, including Ward 22 councillor Pelesile Faku and West Rand District Municipality council speaker Bethuel Munyai. Munyai encouraged other men to step up and actively support efforts to end GBV.
“We need to stand up as men; it is part of our human rights to support gender-based and child abuse programmes,” he stated.
Also present was Sergeant Portia Mabala of the Randfontein Police Station, who made a passionate plea to the public:
Your child is my child. If it doesn’t affect you, you are also a suspect. We had a peaceful walkathon. Break the silence and report incidents of abuse,” Mabala urged.
SDASA’s Lwazi Dlamini further emphasised that GBV remains a pressing issue in Randfontein, pointing out that many victims are still waiting for justice.
“There are cases where victims never got their justice, and we are saying enough is enough. It is very important to help reduce the number of cases. Perpetrators should get a strong warning,” he said.
He added that the psychological and emotional toll on victims can be devastating.
Don’t be afraid to get help! Leave toxic relationships and get help from organisations that give aid to victims.
“Police and social workers are there to help in times like these,” Dlamini encouraged.
Social activist Bafedile Shenxane echoed these sentiments, noting that protecting children is key to safeguarding the future.
Dipuo Ngakane, co-ordinator of Health and Social Development at the West Rand District Municipality, expressed gratitude to SDASA for taking a stand and raising awareness.
The march also saw a touch of beauty and inspiration with the presence of Miss Independent SA, Tumelo Lehloka, who lent her support to the campaign.
