South Africa: SA Pilgrimage Towards Gender Justice

Breaking Barriers in Faith Spaces 

Rev. Mafungwase Mbili’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and transformation. An ordained pastor in a Pentecostal church, she entered a space where women were rarely acknowledged as leaders. Initially joining as a regular member, her pastoral identity was eventually recognized, and she was asked to serve first as a youth pastor. 

But challenges quickly surfaced. Youth committees resisted her leadership simply because she was a woman. Later, she was moved to a rural branch, a decision she embraced wholeheartedly. “I believe in working with people who understand the dynamics of their communities,” she says. 

Despite her commitment, the environment was steeped in patriarchal norms. Women were excluded from leadership roles, even from simple tasks like making announcements. Rev. Mbili often questioned her purpose: “Why am I here? Why is God leading me to this place?” Feelings of isolation and self-doubt weighed heavily. 

Her turning point came through the Faith Leaders Gender TransformationProgramme (FLGTP) a space that offered tools, insights, and healing. For the first time, she learned to cry, to process trauma, and to navigate life with renewed strength. 

The Change: From Isolation to Advocacy 

Empowered by the FLGTP, Rev. Mbili initiated a circle of theologians, starting with 30 female pastors. She shared lessons from the Programme, learning to facilitate dialogues without judgment or scripture-based silencing. This circle has since grown to 45 members, creating a safe space to discuss GBV in churches and communities and advocate for women in leadership. 

Her advocacy extended beyond dialogue: 

• Challenging Patriarchy in Church: Women now serve as treasurers, organizers, and announcers roles previously denied to them.
• Community Impact: Girls report abuse, boys speak out about assault, and traditional leaders participate in gender justice dialogues.
• Institutional Change: The Department of Justice and Social Development responded to reports on exploitation and killings, providing trauma support. SAPS deployed officers and opened a new reporting unit. 

Rev. Mbili also founded Girls Gloves Up, focusing on justice, empowerment, and reproductive health for young women. Through contextual Bible study, her team critically engages scripture transforming it from a weapon of exclusion into a tool for liberation. 

Evidence of Impact 

Her leadership is now recognized at a provincial level. Rev. Mbili was appointed ProvincialGender Coordinator for an ecumenical organization, covering 11 districts and 43 municipalities. Violence has decreased, and communities actively engage in dialogues. Collaborations with the Institute for Healing ofMemories have helped survivors process trauma. 

Social media feedback and testimonies from churches and schools affirm the transformation: people speak openly about abuse, drugs, and domestic violence. Healing and empowerment are no longer abstract they are lived realities. 

Voices of Change 

“Rev. Mafu is a committed and powerful faith leader. She faced challenges of being a woman in ministry, but through courage and training, she now leads dialogues on gender justice and advocates for survivors.” 
— Merrishia Singh-Naicker 

“Your presentation on GBVF had a profound impact. Churches are now openly discussing GBV and requesting collaboration.” 
— Rev. SA Cele 

“Her proposal ‘A Call to Act Together’ offers a strategic way to address injustices. It’s now being considered for adoption by KZNCC.” 
— Merrishia Singh-Naicker 

Why This Matters 

Faith spaces hold immense influence in shaping social norms. Rev. Mbili’s story proves that when women are empowered, they can dismantle harmful stereotypes and lead transformative change. Her work bridges theology and activism, creating pathways for gender justice in communities deeply rooted in tradition. 

Sustainability and Next Steps 

Scaling this work requires structural support: 

• Women’s Forums: Establish forums in all 11 districts, uniting into a provincial network for advocacy.
• Mentorship: Support and train leaders to multiply theology circles locally.
• Policy Engagement: Push for adoption of Rev. Mbili’s proposal by KZNCC to institutionalize gender justice strategies.  

 By Daniela Gennrich, UMzumbe Distrixt, KZN