In observance of Women’s Day, the DA in Gauteng in conjunction with the Democratic Alliance Women’s Network (DAWN) led a gender-based violence awareness walk and donation event in Midvaal to raise awareness of various issues affecting women.
The event was a potent blend of enlightening remarks of support from the party and other groups that are performing outstanding work in the anti-GBVF domain.
The day was also aimed at distributing essential healthcare and feminine hygiene products to NGOs specialising in providing safe homes for victims of GBV.
Bridget Masango MP, Crezane Bosch MPL, Refiloe Nt’sekhe MPL, councillor Sally Nene, Angel Khanyile MP, and regional chairperson Prudence Hlanyane were among the speakers on the schedule.
Speaking about the day, the party said: “Women’s Day was marked with a GBV awareness walk and donation in Midvaal. The DA in Gauteng’s Women’s Day event, hosted in conjunction with the DA Women’s Network (DAWN) in Midvaal, can only be described as a resounding success. The day started with a gender-based violence awareness walk, which set the tone for the event’s spirit.
“The day’s main goal was to ensure the distribution of much-needed healthcare and feminine hygiene products to various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) specialising in ensuring women and children who have been victims of GBV have a safe place to call home.
“We view the day as a success because important messages of hope were conveyed, women were empowered by other women, and a message of hope has taken flight. While we know that words alone won’t change the plight of victims of GBV, the world is a better place if we can offer hope.
“The DA will always fight for a woman’s seat at the table. We will continue our charge to ensure that the environment women face is one that not only allows for them to grow, but that there is a concerted effort to ensure their safety.
“We were only able to make this day a success by working alongside various NGOs and government entities. We would like to thank the various organisations that made this day possible.
“Tosunga Baninga (for survivors by survivors), Intouch Youth Development, Thuthuzela Care Centre, Trillium NPC, Weeds and Seeds Farming Community, South African National Blood Service, and SAPS.’’
The DA conveyed its appreciation to all organisations that helped make the event a success and highlighted their initiatives to alleviate or end GBVF.
“Women’s Day in Midvaal today was a powerful combination of insightful words of encouragement from the DA Women’s Network, organisations who are doing amazing work in the GBVF sector, and a 3km walk by women. To be part of this was both affirming and liberating – knowing that women are making every effort to change the status of women in meaningful and constructive ways. Thank you, SAPS reps, Lifeline, Tosunga Baninga, and many other NPOs that presented the work they do to alleviate or even eradicate the scourge of GBVF.’’
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za