South Africa: I will not watch and do nothing, together we can fight Gender Based Violence

A community-led initiative in rural Limpopo is helping survivors of gender‑based violence rebuild safety, dignity and independence through shelter, counselling and partnerships with local institutions. 

Pastor Mahlale Sarah from Malamulele in the Collins Chabane Municipality, Limpopo, has dedicated her leadership to supporting survivors of gender‑based violence. As a long‑serving school principal, she witnessed the daily suffering of community members who faced abuse without knowledge of their rights or access to safe support systems. Cultural expectations and economic dependence made it difficult for women to leave abusive homes. 

Determined to change this reality, she founded the Prince of Peace Victim Empowerment and Motivational Centre. Using her savings, she bought land in Xitlhelani village and later secured funding from Old Mutual to build the centre. Despite limited resources, volunteers supported administration, victim reception, cleaning, cooking and coordinating with social workers and police. 

Pastor Sarah built strong partnerships with the South African Police Service, the Department of Social Development, traditional leaders, the Collins Chabane Municipality and other non‑profit organisations. Together, they provided survivors with shelter, counselling, legal guidance, and community‑based GBV education. Campaigns in schools, churches and community halls helped shift norms and encourage reporting. 

The change is visible at community level. Survivors now receive safe accommodation, legal support and access to grants. Many regained confidence, secured employment or pursued healthier relationships. Even some perpetrators showed positive behaviour change after counselling or serving sentences. Increased awareness has reduced stigma and encouraged families to speak openly about abuse. 

Sustainability relies on continuous community education, follow‑up support, and collaboration with justice and social service systems. The centre aims to expand after‑incident counselling, strengthen legal literacy, and ensure survivors remain supported during long court processes. By encouraging community members to speak up and educate others, the centre is breaking silence and building long‑term resilience. 

Quotes 
Wanda mangani, "You help me a lot, God bless and increase you"

Mr Baloyi, "If it was not for you, where would I go?"

Link to video