MIDVAAL – Just days before the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence (GBV), Midvaal Local Municipality employees united in a powerful moment of silence, taking a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The event served to commemorate and honour the lives lost to GBVF.

Attendees dressed up in black, gathered at Meyerton Park for a 15-minute silent observance to reflect on the lives affected by GBVF.

Speaking to Ster North following the event, the chairperson for the Section 79 Committee on Gender, Equity, Youth, Disability & Elderly (GEYODI), Councilor Lillian Molakeng, called on every resident, community leader, business, organisation, and stakeholder to rise as one in the fight against GBVF.

“As a nation, we continue to grapple with the devastating and unforgivable impact of violence against women, children, and members of vulnerable groups. Today, Midvaal refuses to remain silent. We join the country in commemorating and honouring the lives lost to GBVF, standing in solidarity with survivors, and demanding accountability, protection, and justice for all.”

Molakeng highlights that GBVF is not a women’s issue, but a societal crisis.
“It demands united action, unwavering commitment, and loud, collective resistance. As Midvaal, we recognise the pain carried by families, the trauma borne by survivors, and the urgent need for systems that protect rather than fail our communities. Today we recommit ourselves to building a municipality where safety is non-negotiable, and where dignity is upheld for every resident.”

On the day, participants were required to withdraw from the economy as a symbolic act of protest, observe a 15-minute Standstill, wear black in mourning and resistance, turn profile pictures purple in solidarity, and share awareness messages to amplify the call for justice.

“These actions echo a shared message: We will not allow silence to protect perpetrators. We will not tolerate a society where women and children live in fear. We will not rest until GBVF is eradicated.

“We are raising a generation that deserves to inherit safety, dignity, and justice, not fear. In Midvaal, we will confront GBVF with unity, conviction, and unshakable purpose until every life is protected.”

MLM is committed to survivor support, strengthening community safety structures, and working with partners to ensure that justice, prevention, and protection remain at the center of its responsibility.