As South Africa, November 25, marks the start of the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, the mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE), Doctor Xhakaza, reaffirmed the city’s commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) and called for unity in confronting the ongoing scourge.
The launch of the 16-day campaign coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed globally on November 25. The campaign runs until December 10, aligning with International Human Rights Day.
“As the City of Ekurhuleni, we stand firm and proactive in being drivers of change,” said Xhakaza.
“We are committed to rooting out any acts of GBV in our communities through awareness campaigns and by ensuring that our healthcare centres provide empathetic and respectful support to victims.”
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He emphasised the ongoing devastation caused by GBV and femicide, particularly among the most vulnerable members of society.
“GBV continues to wreak havoc in our communities. This is why, as South Africans, we remain committed to ensuring the safety of all people, regardless of gender, age, race or sexuality. No one deserves to be abused or violated in any form,” he said.
The mayor also called on residents, businesses and social media users to become active agents of change.
“Today, we join the country and the world in raising our voices against gender-based violence. This campaign is a noble cause that requires the active support of every person,” said the mayor.
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“It is morally right that each of us becomes an engine of change.”
He urged communities to draw inspiration from South Africa’s history of unity in overcoming oppression.
The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, launched the national campaign in Gauteng on November 25.
She urged men, women, children, communities and media platforms to work together to end GBV and femicide.
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