As part of closing activities for the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the South African Police Service in Reitz, in partnership with Nketoana Municipality and the Department of Health, held a candlelight ceremony in honour of victims of Gender-Based Violence.
Community solidarity
The commemoration took place on 10 December 2024 at approximately 11:30 at the R26 Reitz–Bethlehem and R57 Reitz–Kestell intersection. The event was attended by approximately 80 community members, predominantly women, who wore purple in solidarity whilst carrying purple balloons symbolising unity and remembrance.
Call for collective action
Gender-Based Violence remains a national pandemic that requires a collective and urgent response—known as Letsema—from all sectors of society, regardless of gender, race, or belief. Crime recognises no boundaries, and communities are encouraged to break the silence, speak out, and protect one another from abuse.
Continuous education required
“We must teach future generations that violence is never a solution,” organisers emphasised. “Awareness and education efforts must continue 365 days a year until incidents of GBV are drastically reduced and ultimately eradicated,” says Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring, Corporate Communications.
The ceremony served as both a memorial to those lost to gender-based violence and a renewed commitment to creating safer communities for women and children throughout the Free State.
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