On Tuesday, 10 December 2024, Alfred Duma Local Municipality hosted the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children and World AIDS Day program at the Ladysmith Town Hall. Under the theme, “30 years of advancing collective action to end violence against women and children,” this year’s campaign emphasizes addressing the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV), promoting positive masculinity, fostering gender equity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.
In attendance were councillors led by the Mayor, Cllr ZJ Sibisi, municipal staff members, and stakeholders from SAPS, the HIV Unit, DOH, DOJ, Civil Society, Community Safety, DSD, and the Men’s Sector.
The candle-lighting ceremony was conducted by His Worship, the Mayor, Cllr Zama Sibisi, in commemoration of victims of HIV/AIDS and GBV. This was followed by a pledge-signing ceremony and wall hand painting.
Messages of Support:
Department of Social Development: Mr. Ngidi emphasized that it is everyone’s responsibility to unite and fight against gender-based violence, which often results from anger and unhealed emotional wounds. He encouraged society, especially men, to utilize the services offered by the Department of Social Development. “We must respect each other instead of viewing one another as objects of violence,” he said.
SAPS: Colonel Mabaso thanked the municipality for this initiative and commended the men who attended the event. He highlighted the role of men as heads of households in assisting women and addressing issues like sexual abuse among partners.
LifeLine: The organization informed the community that they are based at the Ladysmith SAPS and attend to all types of GBV cases. They are available from 06:00 to 16:00.
In his keynote address, the Mayor, Cllr Z.J. Sibisi, placed a strong emphasis on the importance of respecting people of all genders in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). “It is important that the root cause of this matter be addressed. We must teach our sons and daughters that respect is essential,” he stated.
The Mayor also stressed the significance of adhering to antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to prevent defaulting. He concluded with an announcement that brought much excitement to the audience—the possible change in the status of the municipality. He mentioned that by July 2025, this change is expected to take place.
The Alfred Duma Local Municipality remains steadfast in its fight against GBV and encourages the community to unite in combating this unfortunate scourge.