Police GBV awareness in Soul City | Sedibeng Ster

SHARPEVILLE.- As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sharpeville SAPS embarked on a campaign to raise awareness about GBV at the Soul City Informal Settlement recently.

It was led by Operational Commander Captain Maliehe together with various stakeholders. The campaign highlighted the urgent need to combat GBV through community education and resource mobilisation.

The initiative saw the collaboration of Sedibeng District Social Crime Prevention, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), the Unit for Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses Unit (FCS), the Department of Community Safety, Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM), GBV Brigades, Vaal in Action, and Siyabangena Patrollers.

Together, these stakeholders reached over 120 residents and distributed more than 150 pamphlets containing vital information on recognising, preventing, and responding to GBV.

Constable Busisiwe Sango, Sharpeville SAPS spokesperson, emphasised the importance of community engagement in eradicating GBV. “This campaign is not just about education; it’s about empowering individuals to break the silence and seek help. We urge residents to make use of available resources and report cases of abuse without fear,” she said.

The event forms part of the broader 16 Days of Activism campaign, a global initiative observed annually from November 25 to December 10. This year, the campaign’s theme is “Unite! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” focusing on the collective effort needed to address this pervasive issue.