Residents of Lenasia Extension 13 in South Africa took to the streets on Friday, September 18, to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and show solidarity with women affected by violence. The march, organised by Gadija Marwing and Zaibun Nisaa Jardine, brought the community together to speak out against the growing concerns of violence against women. The event aimed to highlight the seriousness of GBV and make it clear that residents will not remain silent in the face of such incidents.
The organisers stated that the gathering was not only about raising awareness in the area but also about showing support to victims and families affected by violence against women. The walk was a gesture of respect for the women who have lost their lives amid the killings reported in Ekurhuleni. The event served as a moment of solidarity with the victims and their families, reminding residents that the loss of women's lives should not be treated as just another news story.
Jardine emphasised that the number of incidents affecting women had prompted residents to come together and make their position known. The community is standing together because too many women are getting killed, and they want to show perpetrators that they are standing with women who are victims of GBV. The march provided an opportunity for residents to express their concerns and stand alongside women affected by violence.
The organisers stressed that collective action and continued conversations are crucial in challenging attitudes that allow violence against women to persist. They encouraged residents to support victims and speak up when they witness or become aware of abuse. The event was a visible demonstration of solidarity with women and a tribute to those whose lives have been lost.
The organisers called for people to remain united beyond the march and continue creating awareness about GBV within their families and neighbourhoods. They believe that sustained efforts are necessary to bring about change and ensure that the community's message continues. The march was intended to keep the issue in the public eye and encourage people to continue speaking out.
The community's stance against GBV is part of a larger effort to tackle the issue in the region. Recently, community stakeholders in Chatsworth united to tackle gender-based violence, and Chatsworth has taken the lead in the national fight against gender-based violence and femicide. The Lenasia Extension 13 march demonstrates that residents are committed to making their voices heard and taking action against GBV.
The event concluded with a clear message: the community will not tolerate violence against women, and they will continue to stand together to raise awareness and support victims. The organisers and participants hope that their efforts will contribute to a larger impact in the fight against GBV in South Africa.
Key points
- The Lenasia Extension 13 march was organised by Gadija Marwing and Zaibun Nisaa Jardine to raise awareness about GBV.
- The event aimed to show solidarity with women affected by violence and support victims and families.
- The organisers called for sustained efforts to challenge attitudes that allow violence against women to persist.
