EVATON.- Women’s presence in communities carries a responsibility to listen and act.

This was clearly indicated when the African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) in Sedibeng Region convened an Umanyano with Bomme ba Morapelo at Wilberforce Community College last Thursday.

The gathering brought together women, religious leaders and ANC structures in prayer against gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, for matriculants preparing for examinations, peaceful elections and moral regeneration.

The event was also attended by Gwen Ramokgopa, Treasurer-General of the ANC and ANC NEC member.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, ANCWL Sedibeng Secretary, Disebo Tlebere, said holding the Umanyano at Wilberforce carried particular significance because Charlotte Mannya Maxeke and her husband, Marshall Maxeke, contributed to the educational work of Wilberforce Institute in Evaton under the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.

Charlotte Maxeke helped lay the foundations for organised women’s struggle.

“Her association with the institution forms part of a legacy that brought together education, faith, community service and the struggle for women’s emancipation. As the founding President of the Bantu Women’s League, the forerunner of the ANC Women’s League, Charlotte Maxeke helped lay the foundations for organised women’s struggle. Gathering at Wilberforce therefore reminded us that honouring her legacy requires practical work to advance women’s dignity, safety, education and participation in leadership,” Tlebere explained.

The Umanyano affirmed the role of Bomme ba Morapelo and faith communities in supporting families, confronting violence and restoring care and responsibility within society.

The ANCWL calls for this spiritual support to be accompanied by action against rape, abuse and the killing of women.

Women entering public leadership need sustained political and organisational support.

“Survivors must be treated with dignity, supported when reporting abuse and able to seek justice without intimidation.”

Beyond the prayer gathering, the ANCWL joined Ward 19 ANC councillor candidate, Jeniffer Radebe, in community engagement concerning service delivery challenges in the ward and Emfuleni more broadly.

“Our presence in communities carries a responsibility to listen and act. Concerns raised during engagements must be recorded, referred to the responsible authorities and followed up. Communities deserve clear responses and accountability for the services on which they depend.”

Ramokgopa emphasised the importance of supporting women candidates during the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE).

“Women entering public leadership need sustained political and organisational support to fulfil their responsibilities and respond effectively to community needs.”

Tlebere concluded that they left Wilberforce with a responsibility to carry the spirit of the Umanyano into their daily work: “Supporting matriculants, protecting women, promoting peaceful participation in elections and responding to the concerns of our communities.”