A strong regional partnership between Boland Rugby, the Sanlam Foundation and the Drakenstein Municipality took centre-stage during the Top 12 rugby final this past Saturday (22 November) as key roleplayers demonstrated their united stand against gender-based violence (GBV).
The initiative forms part of the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign and was officially showcased on Saturday before the start of the match.
The campaign aims to shine a light on one of the most urgent social challenges facing South Africa.
Representatives from the Department of Social Development, the Thuthuzela Care Centre and the AHOS Shelter for Abused Women and Children were present to engage with supporters and provide information and access to support services.
Players and officials from the participating clubs also took a public pledge against GBV in a symbolic commitment to respect, accountability and community protection.
Bennie van Rooi, president of the Boland Rugby Union, praised the collaboration and said the initiative shows how sport can connect people and inspire long term social impact.
“What happened today showed the true strength of the Boland community,” Van Rooi said. “Rugby brings people together, but standing up against gender-based violence unites us on a deeper level. Our union is committed to using our platform to educate, to protect and to uplift. This is not only a campaign. It is a responsibility we carry throughout the year.”
Ray-ann Sedres, head of the Sanlam Foundation, highlighted the importance of collective action and the need to support survivors in meaningful ways.
“Gender-based violence leaves deep and lasting scars,” Sedres said. “It is up to all of us to restore dignity and provide comfort to survivors in their most vulnerable moments. This initiative is about more than symbolic gestures. It is about creating real pathways to change. By joining forces with key partners in the Boland, we are amplifying the message that abuse has no place in our homes, our communities or our country.”
During the half-time break, players and representatives once again affirmed their public commitment in a powerful show of solidarity that resonated across the stadium.
Van Rooi concluded that respect lies at the heart of rugby and should guide the way people treat one another.
“This effort goes further than awareness,” he said. “It is about supporting survivors, strengthening our communities and working together to build a safer South Africa.”
