Stakeholders Unite in Primrose March Against Gender-Based Violence

To honor Women’s Month and pay tribute to the collective strength of women, a significant commemorative event unfolded, orchestrated by the Ekurhuleni clinical forensic medical services from Bertha Gxowa Care Centre in conjunction with various stakeholders. This event, marked by its meaningful participation and deliberate structure, conveyed a resounding message of solidarity and empowerment.

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The celebration itself unfolded in two distinct phases, each carrying a purposeful message and goal. The initial phase took the form of a march against the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV). A procession, commencing from Primrose Park and progressing towards the Rietfontein SPAR, symbolised a united stand against GBV. Along the march, information pamphlets addressing the pressing issue of GBV were disseminated, reinforcing the significance of raising awareness and educating the public about this critical concern.

The second phase of the celebration occurred at the SPAR parking lot, where an engaging platform was provided to a diverse range of speakers. This platform served as a conduit for these speakers to share insights, services, and support available to the community. By granting various representatives this opportunity, the event showcased a collaborative spirit and a concerted effort to address the multifaceted challenges faced by women.

The scope of participation was extensive, with numerous stakeholders joining forces to commemorate Women’s Month in Primrose. These participants included representatives from Primrose SAPS, EMPD, Department of Social Development, the mayor’s office, various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Eldac, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Gauteng Traffic Police, GBV brigades, crime prevention wardens, and the crime prevention youth desk. This convergence of diverse entities underscored the collective dedication to addressing gender-related issues and empowering women.

Mokgadi Malebane, the communicator for the KeReady NGO, articulated a vital perspective on women’s empowerment. By providing health-related information, KeReady NGO aims to equip women with valuable knowledge, thereby fostering empowerment. Malebane emphasised the need to raise awareness about critical topics such as GBV, cancer, and other challenges faced by women, recognising their ongoing significance.

The event also highlighted the pivotal role played by youth ambassadors like Nosipho Hani, stationed at Edenvale SAPS. Hani’s engagement with young individuals underscores a commitment to ensuring they possess the necessary resources to excel in education and other spheres. Within the SAPS, Hani extends her support by offering counselling services to those grappling with experiences of rape or abuse. Her advice to young women accentuates the importance of self-belief, recognising one’s worth, and seeking solace in the presence of helping hands.

Primrose Communications Officer Sgt Styles Maome delivered a crucial message within the discourse of justice and community cooperation. He urged the community not to withdraw cases, as such actions contribute to a backlog in the judicial system, ultimately impeding justice. He acknowledged the unfortunate practice of opening cases to exert pressure on individuals, further complicating the pursuit of justice.

Dr Attah Menzi Mkhize, a medical professional from Bertha Gxowa Care Centre, illuminated the severity of violence disproportionately affecting women and children. Dr Mkhize specifically addressed the grim issue of corrective rape, underscoring the importance of their centre’s trauma counselling, HIV and pregnancy testing, and evidence collection. He emphasised the need for a timely response by advising rape victims to come forward within 72 hours for medical reasons and supporting the SAPS in their investigative efforts related to family violence, child protection, and sexual offences.

The Women’s Month celebration orchestrated by the Ekurhuleni clinical forensic medical services and their collaborative partners is a testament to the collective commitment to addressing gender-based challenges. The event’s multifaceted phases, encompassing a march against GBV and a platform for speakers, are emblematic of a unified resolve to empower women, amplify their voices, and provide vital support services. Through the contributions of dedicated stakeholders and the shared wisdom of advocates like Mokgadi Malebane, Nosipho Hani, Sgt Styles Maome, and Dr Attah Menzi Mkhize, the celebration encapsulates a vision of progress and unity in the ongoing struggle for gender equality and safety.

Source: Stakeholders march against GBV in Primrose

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Photo: Supplied by Germiston City News