'No' to GBV

A GROUNDBREAKING gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) peaceful march and imbizo held in Thohoyandou delivered a powerful message of unity, hope and decisive action.

- SILAS NDUVHENI

On Friday, over 2 000 community members joined the Deputy Minister of Police, Dr Polly Boshielo and other provincial government leaders in a united stand against crime and gender-based violence. The event was spearheaded by the Eyes of the Nation Foundation and supported by an unprecedented coalition of stakeholders. Among the dignitaries present were MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye, Vhembe Mayor Freda Nkondo, Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rambuda, SAPS divisional commissioner for detectives and forensic services, Lt Gen Hilda Senthumule, and provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe along with her management team.

In her crime overview presentation, Hadebe acknowledged positive trends in several crime categories but expressed concern over the persistent high levels of sexual offences and house robberies in Thohoyandou. "People should not live in fear in their own homes, uncertain of who might come to rob, rape, or even kill them," she said.