South Africa: Bringing services and hope to the Platfontein community

On 7 July 2026, Gender Links, in partnership with Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, hosted a Human Rights Awareness Campaign at Xunkhwesa Combined School in the Platfontein community, bringing together government departments, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and community members to promote human rights, equality and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV).

The campaign began with a live interview at Platfontein Community Radio, where Naledi Masipa of Gender Links and Lahlu Mabula of Sol Plaatje Local Municipality introduced the Sunrise Campaign and encouraged community members to participate in the day's activities. The interview highlighted the importance of human rights awareness and the role that every citizen can play in building safer and more inclusive communities.

Proceedings at the school opened with a scripture reading and prayer by Rev. Manu, who reflected on 1 Corinthians 12:14–21, reminding participants that every person is an important part of society. His message reinforced the day's theme by emphasising that every individual deserves dignity, respect and equal treatment regardless of their background or culture.

Khwe Traditional Leader, Mr Johnny Matamo, attended the event alongside other community leaders, demonstrating the importance of traditional leadership in advancing human rights and social cohesion. Lahlu Mabula officially welcomed participants and acknowledged the presence of stakeholders representing various government departments and partner organisations.

Naledi Masipa from Gender Links provided an overview of the Sunrise Campaign, outlining its purpose and the positive impact it continues to have in communities. She emphasised that human rights are the foundation of peaceful and inclusive societies and encouraged everyone to become ambassadors for respect, equality and the prevention of gender-based violence.

Diana Dixon shared the journey of the Sunrise Campaign, reflecting on its growth and the achievements realised through collaboration between municipalities, Gender Links and community members. Her presentation highlighted the campaign's commitment to empowering communities to become active participants in creating safer environments.

The Commission for Gender Equality's representative, Mr Solly Ngoveni, delivered an informative presentation on the role of human rights in South Africa's constitutional democracy. He explained the responsibilities of municipalities, provincial departments and national government in protecting and promoting human rights. He stressed that ending gender-based violence requires collective action and strong partnerships between government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional leaders and communities.

Addressing community safety, Captain Semetsa of SAPS spoke candidly about the challenges experienced in policing the Platfontein community. He described Platfontein as a community that often feels isolated and highlighted the language barrier experienced by police officers when serving the Xu and Khwe communities. He appealed for stronger cooperation between residents and law enforcement, while urging people to respect the Xu and Khwe languages and cultures. He noted that mocking people's language is a violation of their dignity and that every individual deserves respect as a fundamental human right.

Representatives from various government departments also shared information on the services available to community members. Ms Mkhekhu from the Thuthuzela Centre explained the support available to survivors of gender-based violence and sexual offences, while the Department of Health conducted a Hand Washing Drive to promote healthy hygiene practices. Ms Mookgo Letanta from the Department of Social Development encouraged community members to access available social support services and highlighted the department's commitment to assisting vulnerable individuals and families.

Community members actively participated during an engaging question-and-answer session, where they raised concerns, sought clarification on available services and engaged directly with service providers. The interactive discussions strengthened the partnership between the community and government stakeholders while encouraging greater awareness of rights and responsibilities.

The programme was further enriched by a lively musical performance from Sunrise Campaign participants, whose songs celebrated unity, hope and collective action against violence.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mr Antonio Sabaso, Xu Traditional Leader, who expressed appreciation to all partners, government departments, traditional leaders and community members for their commitment to promoting human rights. He encouraged continued collaboration to ensure that the Platfontein community remains a place where dignity, equality and respect are upheld for everyone.

The Human Rights Awareness Campaign reaffirmed the importance of partnership, inclusion and community participation in advancing human rights. It also highlighted the unique needs of the Xu and Khwe communities, particularly the importance of respecting their languages, cultures and identities. Through the Sunrise Campaign, Gender Links and Sol Plaatje Local Municipality continue to strengthen community-led efforts to build safer, more equitable and violence-free communities.

Stakeholders:

Gender Links 
Department Of Health
Department Of Social Development 
Thuthuzela Care Centre
SAPS

(Written by Siphelele Kunene, RWVL intern)