Walking, united as one, against GBV

MATSAFENI - A walk and a round table to break the culture of silence on genderbased violence (GBV) will take place on November 28 at Matsafeni Square.

The event will be hosted by GRIP in order to raise awareness about the scourge.

GRIP founder, Barbara Kenyon, said silence, stigma and shame have kept GBV an invisible crime.

“As our communities continue to face an increase in domestic violence, GRIP and the Matsafeni Men’s Forum, together with other stakeholders have joined in the struggle against it. We all want to alert the community members that any act of violence, especially against women and children, will not be tolerated.

“GBV starts and stops in the way we raise our children. Sadly, this violence is escalating in our communities and is a gross violation of fundamental human rights. This is the reason why the Matsafeni Men’s Forum says, ‘Not in our name’. We collectively commend the courage exercised by survivors. Perpetrators must be held accountable,” she explained.

“We urge the public to attend the community round table and walk to raise awareness. Come join us to share and hear vital information for all residents of Matsafeni and the surrounding areas.”

According to Kenyon, they have a funfilled programme planned for the day.

“We will have a variety of stalls by stakeholders and local organisations at the square.”

The event starts at 06:00 and ends at 15:00. The participants will walk from the Shell Fuel Station to Matsafeni Square.

Enquiries: Nontsikeleldo on

082-581-7184 or 082-737-3781, or

Lungile on 081-391-7013.