By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Residents came out in large numbers to attend the launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign led Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, at
Edward Matyeka Primary School Open Ground, Ezinambeni, in the Emalahleni Local Municipality on
Thursday 27 November 2025.
The campaign reportedly aims to create awareness about the scourge of GBVF(Gender-Based Violence and Femicide), challenge discriminatory attitudes, and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women and children.
Additionally, the campaign urges communities to play their part in preventing GBVF by; Reporting abusers, Challenging and denouncing cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities, Being sensitive and supportive to GBV victims, Protecting children from exposure to violence and harmful content on the internet and social media.
Speaking at the event, Ndlovu said he will not rest until a girl-child in Mpumalanga can freely go to school to study at night without any fear of being victimised.
He said the province and the country in general must work together to make sure that GBVF is totally exterminated from society. He also lamented the common practice of victims withdrawing cases related to GBV.
“ This is a very important event. We want to take this moment to commemorate the lives that have been lost to GBVF. My request is that all of us must speak with one voice in order to end GBVF. Our commitment to this campaign is to ensure that we respond immediately to cases of GBV.
“ We must protect victims and make sure that they are not victimised for the second time. We also encourage those who are victimised to speak out and not be afraid. We must live in peace here in Mpumalanga, and protect one another,” said Premier Ndlovu.
He said a GBVF Council has been established in the province as part of the measures to root out the scourge, as well as to intensify awareness and strengthen platforms of engagement between government and communities.
According to provincial statistics, Vosman Police Station(Emalahleni) is among the top five stations with high contact crimes in the province.
About 764 cases of GBVF are said to have been reported during the first quarter, with women and children being the primary victims. Domestic violence-related crimes are also reportedly prevalent, with Nkangala District recording 38%, Ehlanzeni 36%, and Gert Sibande 26%.
The Provincial Government said the theme for this year’s campaign is “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys, and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide,” which emphasises the importance of collective action in preventing GBVF.
The theme is reportedly aligned with strengthening
As part of the activities, fridges donated by the Mpumalanga Provincial Treasury were issued to victims of abuse and violence.
