WATCH: Locals brave the rain to join hands with GBV victims

City of uMhlathuze residents stand united against gender-based violence

4 hours ago

Dave Savides 2 minutes read

The purpose is solemn and the message is clear

Not even the cold, miserably wet conditions could deter the supporters of the ‘Run/Walk for Her’ event who arrived with fire in their hearts to send a strong message against gender-based violence.

They came in numbers to Alkantstrand on Saturday, determined to stand by those who have suffered from GBV – including the suspected serial killer victims in Gauteng.

Dressed solemnly in black, participants defended the rights of women to live free from danger or fear, whether it be out running or simply in daily life routines.

Splashing their way between the two piers at Alkantstrand, the walkers were firm in their resolve to make a difference

Accompanied by some male supporters, and children, they demanded greater action against perpetrators, calling on police and the courts for increased protection, and standing together for safer streets, safe running spaces and safety for all women.

The group also acknowledged those who have lost their lives in GBV attacks.

Many carried placards and posters as they walked the 4km route between the two piers, the messages both sombre and encouraging.

Organisers called on those who have been personally affected by GBV to go for help and to share their experiences, in the hope that this will encourage others to seek counselling and support, and a prayer was raised calling for the message to be spread far and wide.

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WATCH: Locals brave the rain to join hands with #GBV victims
♬ original sound – Zululand_Observer – Zululand_Observer

About 100 runners also heeded Igeja Phansi’s call to ‘run for her’ on Saturday morning in Empangeni.

Runners and walkers – mainly women – took part in the nationwide run against GBV in solidarity with the victims of the recent Kempton Park murders, as well as all victims of abuse and gender-based violence.

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ZO UPDATE | About 100 runners heeded Igeja Phansi’s call to ‘run for her’ this morning (Saturday) in Empangeni. Runners and walkers – mainly women – took part in the nationwide run against GBV in solidarity with the victims of the recent Kempton Park murders, as well as all victims of abuse and gender-based violence gbvawareness #endgbv #endgbvf #HearMeToo
♬ original sound – Zululand_Observer – Zululand_Observer

Community members in eNseleni also braved the cold, rainy weather to walk in solidarity with victims of gender-based violence.

“Our communities should be places where women and children feel protected and safe,” said organiser Lungie Zikhali.

“We cannot remain silent while lives are lost. Justice must be served, and together we must continue to speak out against Gender-Based Violence.”

A GBV awareness march was held in eNseleni on Sunday

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WATCH: Enseleni community march against gender-based violence #gbvawareness #GBV #Runforher
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