Gert Sibande District Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Walter Mngomezulu has called for stronger action to combat gender-based violence and femicide and protect women and vulnerable communities. Photo: GSDM
The Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) has called for stronger action to protect women and communities amid renewed concern over gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa.
In a statement issued on 18 September, the municipality referred to recent reports of women being killed in Ekurhuleni and other parts of the country, saying the incidents have heightened fear and concern among women and families.
GSDM Executive Mayor Cllr Walter Mngomezulu said addressing GBVF requires sustained prevention, education, early intervention, support for survivors and accountability for perpetrators.
He said the municipality continues to support community engagements through structures including the District AIDS Council, District Community Safety Forum, community dialogues and initiatives aimed at promoting moral regeneration and social responsibility.
“Our work through community engagements, including the District AIDS Council meetings and other initiatives that promote moral regeneration and social responsibility, must continue to contribute towards communities where women and children are protected, respected and able to live without fear,” Mngomezulu said.
He called on law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to prioritise investigations into reported cases of violence against women and to strengthen measures aimed at preventing further loss of life.
Mngomezulu also urged community safety structures, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and communities to work together to identify areas where women and children may be particularly vulnerable.
The municipality further encouraged residents to report incidents of GBVF, support survivors and reject silence or complicity when abuse occurs.
GSDM said it remains committed to working with communities and stakeholders to strengthen prevention efforts, promote gender equality and protect vulnerable residents.