The Bothasig community showed their support this week in the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Annually in November South Africa joins the rest of the world in support of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign which runs from 25 November to 10 December.
This week residents in Bothasig joined the local Community Policing Forum (CPF) on their regular social walk where they took a stand against GBV wearing purple to mark the occasion, and holding signs encouraging the public to break the silence against this scourge. “Her voice matters, her life matters,” one of those signs read.
The walk took place on Monday 17 November.
Mario Borchards, CPF chair, says the purpose of the social walk was to raise awareness about GBVF within the Bothasig precinct.
“This community initiative brings residents together in a visible show of solidarity, emphasising that GBVF is not only a private issue but a community concern that requires collective action. By walking side by side through our neighbourhoods, participants help break the silence surrounding abuse, encourage open dialogue, and highlight the importance of early reporting and support for victims.
“The social walk also aims to strengthen partnerships between residents, neighbourhood watches, local organisations, and policing structures. Through this united presence, the initiative seeks to promote safety, reinforce prevention efforts, and empower community members to stand firm against all forms of violence,” says Borchards.
Ultimately, the GBVF awareness social walk serves as a reminder that a safer, more compassionate Bothasig begins with awareness, involvement, and a community that refuses to look away, he adds.
The CPF thanked everyone who showed up with purpose, compassion, and determination on its social media page, saying every voice matters, and every step counts.
“Today’s social walk was more than just steps taken, it was a united stand to highlight gender-based violence and femicide. Our community came together in solidarity to raise awareness and say no to violence in all its forms,” the CPF wrote.
