South Africa: Human Rights campaign strengthening community action against GBV
The Gender Links Sunrise Campaign, in partnership with the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, hosted a Human Rights Awareness Campaign at the Galeshewe Recreation Hall in Kimberley on 8 July 2026, bringing together government departments, civil society organisations and community members to promote human rights and strengthen the collective response to gender-based violence (GBV).
The programme opened with a prayer led by Rev. Thapelo Molaeng, who reflected on Judges 4:1–8, reminding participants of the importance of courage, justice and leadership in addressing the challenges facing communities today. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem, setting a tone of unity and shared responsibility.
Welcoming participants on behalf of Councillor Nomazizi Shwababa, Lahlu Mabula acknowledged the wide range of stakeholders who had gathered to support the campaign. She thanked the various government departments and community members for their commitment to advancing human rights and protecting vulnerable members of society.
Gender Links South Africa Manager for the Sunrise Campaign, Naledi Masipa, provided an overview of the Sunrise Campaign and explained the purpose of the Human Rights Awareness Campaign. She highlighted how the programme empowers survivors of gender-based violence through entrepreneurship, digital skills, mentorship, life skills and economic empowerment while ensuring communities are informed about their rights and the services available to them.
One of the most inspiring moments of the programme was the testimony shared by Sunrise Campaign participant Pulane Mokgothu, who reflected on her personal journey. She spoke about the challenges she experienced before joining the programme and how the Sunrise Campaign helped restore her confidence, develop her business and rebuild her life. Her story demonstrated the transformative power of investing in survivors and creating opportunities for women to become economically independent.
The day's presentations showcased the importance of a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to addressing gender-based violence and protecting human rights.
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) introduced participants to its constitutional mandate, explaining its role in promoting, protecting, monitoring and evaluating gender equality in South Africa while ensuring that the rights of women and other vulnerable groups are upheld.
Representing the South African Police Service (SAPS), Captain Tsiu reminded participants that gender-based violence is everyone's responsibility. He encouraged communities not to remain silent when witnessing abuse and urged residents to work together with law enforcement agencies to create safer communities.
A presentation by Nomonde from the Thuthuzela Care Centre highlighted the comprehensive support available to survivors of sexual offences and gender-based violence. She explained that the Centre promotes several fundamental human rights, including the right to life, health care, equality, justice and access to information. Participants were taken through the survivor support process, from medical care and counselling to forensic services and legal assistance, and were encouraged to visit the Centre whenever they require support.
Addressing participants on behalf of the Department of Justice, Jack Matuka challenged the common misconception that justice is simply about sending offenders to prison. He explained that the justice system exists to ensure fairness and access to justice through collaboration between the South African Police Service, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Justice. He also called on men to break the silence around abuse and emotional challenges, encouraging them to seek help and report incidents rather than suffering alone.
Although the Department of Health was unable to attend and submitted an apology, the programme continued with a presentation by Melanie Fourie from the Department of Social Development. She outlined the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and explained the wide range of services available to victims without discrimination. She also addressed the growing concern around the withdrawal of protection orders, explaining that social workers now conduct assessments before such orders can be cancelled to ensure that victims remain protected. She further highlighted the Department's Service Charter and reaffirmed every person's right to protection through services such as shelters and psychosocial support.
Throughout the programme, a common message emerged: protecting human rights and ending gender-based violence requires collaboration across all sectors of society. Community members were encouraged to know their rights, access available services and actively support survivors of violence.
The Human Rights Awareness Campaign concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Lahlu Mabula on behalf of Councillor Landlela, who was attending a municipal council meeting. She thanked all presenters, stakeholders and community members for their participation and encouraged everyone to continue championing human rights long after the event.
As the Sunrise Campaign continues to build resilient communities across South Africa, the Kimberley Human Rights Awareness Campaign served as a powerful reminder that informed communities, strong partnerships and coordinated services are essential to preventing gender-based violence and ensuring that every person enjoys their fundamental human rights.
STAKEHOLDERS
The Commission For Gender Equality
SAPS
Thuthuzela Care Centre
Department Of Justice
Department Of Social Development
(Written by Siphelele Kunene, RWVL intern)
