Makhuduthamaga women talk against GBVF

GA-MARISHANE/MADIBONG – Women in Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality converged in their numbers at Makgatsike Primary School in Ga-Marishane Village to share their personal experiences on the scourge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide during a Women’s Dialogue on 29 August.

Aimed at addressing and eliminating domestic ills and GBVF, the Women’s Dialogue was able to attract participation of women from all walks of life including teachers, general members of the public, representatives from various sectors such as the social development and health departments.

MLM Mayor, Merah Mahlase, during her address at the dialogue, said government is leading the agenda of promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, a programme that is central to efforts to combat poverty and stimulate sustainable development.

A variety of speakers related their stories in relation to the impact of the scourge on the girl child and women within schools and the general society.

Mahlase reiterated that communities need to support and firmly stand by victims of GBVF for justice to prevail. “It is the responsibility of all South Africans to end the culture of silence around GBVF and protect the women and children in our communities,” she indicated.

Meanwhile, the mayor closed off Women’s Month on a high note as she shared her birthday cake with the community of Madibong Village at the local traditional authority office on 30 August.

Mahlase further handed over 600 blankets through her blankets drive programme that day as she turned older.

The day started with a courtesy visit she paid to Kgoshigadi Morwamoche of the Marota-Madibong Royal House. Mahlase was joined by Council Speaker Judy Nkgadima, Chief Whip Mosedi Thamaga, Head of Budget and Treasury, Malebo Phala, Deputy Head of Infrastructure Services, Morwamakoti Makanyoge and Ward Councillor Dineo Mashabane, who serves the MLM as Chairperson of Corporate Services Portfolio and Women Caucus respectively.

Mahlase said she decided to spend the day with the community to celebrate with them the grace of life, her journey that came with dynamic experiences and the importance of having a mother and female figure through thick and thin.

The celebration also enjoyed the support of Sekhukhune District Municipality MMC Orginia Mafefe, who represented Executive Mayor Minah Bahula.