BETHLEHEM – The Dihlabeng Local Municipality has joined the nationwide fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) following the recent brutal murders of women in the Ekurhuleni area.

The municipality held a lunchtime solidarity demonstration recently to honour the victims, support their grieving families and call for an end to violence against women and girls.

Municipal Manager Mohau Ntheli, together with members of the senior management team and municipal officials, joined the gathering to demonstrate their commitment to addressing GBV and promoting safer communities. Addressing officials, Ntheli emphasised the important role men can play in preventing violence against women and girls. He stressed that not all men were perpetrators of GBV and urged men to take an active stand against abuse.

He called on men to support and protect women and girls, speak out against violence and take responsibility for helping to create communities where everyone can live without fear.

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As part of the demonstration, municipal officials lit candles in remembrance of the victims and in solidarity with their families and all those affected by GBVF. The gathering also observed a moment of silence and prayer to honour the lives lost and express support for the families left behind.

The municipality said the demonstration highlighted the devastating consequences of GBV and the urgent need for communities to work together to prevent further tragedies. It called on all sectors of society, including community leaders, organisations and individuals, to unite against GBV, speak out against abuse and support efforts to protect women and girls. The municipality reiterated the need for collective action to build safer communities where women and girls can live free from violence, intimidation, fear and abuse.