The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) has officially launched the 16 Days of Activism campaign for No Violence against Women and Children in partnership with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), calling on residents to unite in the fight against GBVF.
The international campaign, which runs annually from 25 November to 10 December, was launched with a community march and dialogue session at the George Botha community hall in KwaNoxolo on Monday, 24 November.
This year’s theme focuses on ending digital violence against women and girls.
The MMC for Safety and Security Luyanda Lawu, Ward 38 Councillor Mphumzi Momo and GCIS representative Zukiswa Mqumbisa led the programme, emphasising the need for community and law enforcement collaboration.
“The internationally recognised anti-GBV campaign is themed ‘Unite to end digital violence against all women and girls’ and the Safety and Security directorate is ready to support,” said Lawu. “We urge communities to join this fight against GBV.”
Urgent challenges highlighted
During the dialogue session, key stakeholders including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Social Development, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and the Thuthuzela Care Centre addressed residents about available support services.
Police Brigadier Mzwabantu Jada painted a stark picture of the challenges facing the Bethelsdorp area: “Our area has a high murder rate, high GBV cases and severe drug abuse,” he shared. “As SAPS we patrol regularly, but we cannot fight this battle alone. We need our communities to stand with us.”
Meanwhile, Wandiswa Shwaye, a Victim Assistant Officer from the Thuthuzela Care Centre, stressed the importance of immediate reporting in sexual assault cases: “Report rape immediately so healthcare workers can collect evidence and assist with medication. We are here to support survivors and we are authorised to open cases for minors in rape-related matters.”
Support Services Available
The Department of Social Development outlined their Victim Empowerment Programme, which collaborates with schools, NGOs and community groups.
“For children, the root cause of trauma often starts at home. We all need to be mindful of how we handle conflict,” a representative shared. “Our White Door Centres of Hope in local communities are open to assist anyone affected by violence.”
Temba Gola from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development encouraged early intervention: “We can assist with protection orders in cases of harassment. We urge people to come forward and speak out.”
Call for united action
Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe referenced President Cyril Ramaphosa’s words: “As long as gender-based violence and femicide continue, no society can truly thrive.”
“These words ring painfully true in Nelson Mandela Bay, where too many women and children still live with fear and silence,” Lobishe said. “GBVF is not distant—it lives in our homes, streets and institutions, and it demands bold action from every one of us.”
She shared the municipality’s commitment to strengthening partnerships: “As the Municipality, we are strengthening our work with SAPS, community safety partners, social workers, NGOs, faith-based groups and safe houses to ensure survivors are protected with dignity and supported when they speak out.”
However, Mayor Lobishe stressed that government efforts alone are insufficient: “We need a united city—parents, neighbours, colleagues, teachers, especially men and boys—to challenge harmful behaviour, speak out and help build a culture of respect, empathy and accountability.”
The 16 Days of Activism campaign will continue until 10 December, with various government and community partners providing ongoing support services for those affected by gender-based violence.
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