Nkosinathi Nkabinde
The City of Johannesburg’s Group Corporate and Shared Services, in partnership with Metropolitan Life, hosted a pivotal dialogue during the 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Children Abuse.
Held on 29 November 2024 at the Metropolitan Life head office in Centurion, the event embraced the theme, “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children”, reflecting a shared commitment to eradicating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
The dialogue convened government officials, activists, survivors, and stakeholders to strengthen collective efforts against societal and workplace violence and inequality.
Delivering the keynote, Councillor Loyiso Masuku, the MMC for Corporate and Shared Services in the City of Johannesburg, emphasised the need for united advocacy to break the cycle of violence.
“Gender-based violence is a human rights violation with far-reaching impacts. It’s a pandemic, if not a civil war, against our most vulnerable: women, children, and the LGBTQI community,” Masuku said, calling for sustained action to combat the crisis.
Survivor and activist Disele May, the founder of the Disele May Foundation, recounted her journey and urged the dismantling of patriarchal systems that normalise abuse. “It’s time to challenge harmful norms and recognise their devastating impact,” she said.
Other speakers included Patricia Nyamandi, from the Department of Justice, who highlighted legal tools for addressing GBVF, and Metropolitan Life’s Cebisa Mahlukwana, who tackled financial abuse, urging women to secure financial independence and literacy.
Calvin Nkosi of the South African Queer Movement advocated for inclusivity, sharing personal struggles faced by queer individuals and calling on the City to raise awareness about diversity.
The event underscored the importance of collaboration to address the complexities of GBVF. Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to creating inclusive, safe spaces while dismantling harmful practices and norms.
As the 16 Days of Activism campaign continues, the City of Johannesburg remains a beacon for advancing justice and equity, encouraging communities to unite against gender-based violence.
