The Klerksdorp CBD became a "hive of activity" on Friday, December 5, 2025, as a powerful demonstration of solidarity took place. In line with the 16 Days of Activism against Women and Child Abuse campaign, the Library Services Department of the City of Matlosana Local Municipality organised a significant 4-kilometre walk against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), drawing in municipal employees and community members seeking justice.

Extensive Stakeholder Collaboration

The successful staging of the march was made possible through extensive collaboration between the Matlosana Local Municipality's Library Department and numerous key stakeholders.

The participating organisations included:

• South African Police Service (SAPS)

• Standard Bank, NTT Nissan, ABSA Bank

• GCIS (Government Communication and Information System)

• National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)

• Vuselela College

• Kamotsumi Solutions

• Thuthuzela Crisis Centre

• Film and Publication Board (FPB)

• Department of Social Development

• Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Route and High-Level Support

The march kicked off from the Klerksdorp Library, proceeding to the Klerksdorp City Mall and returning to the library. The route covered key thoroughfares, including Emily Hobhouse Street, OR Tambo Street, the R30 Route, and Voortrekker Street, ensuring high visibility for the anti-GBV message.

The event received strong support from the city's executive leadership, with attendance from Executive Mayor, Cllr Fikile Mahlophe, the MMC for Sports, Art and Culture, Cllr Mojalefa Mosupa, and the Director of Community Services, Mr. Pheelo Setona, alongside officials, stakeholders, and community members.

Calls to Action and Condemnation of Abuse

During the event, the Klerksdorp community was strongly encouraged to report any cases of abuse, whether against children or spouses, before it was too late, emphasising proactive intervention. A representative from Social Development and the NPA spoke to the importance of seeking justice and the available support structures.

Cllr Mojalefa Mosupa, MMC for Sports, Art, and Culture, made a fervent appeal to men, urging them to "control their anger and stop raping minors" and to "treat women with respect, not as property they can abuse at any will." The Klerksdorp SAPS also addressed the community, reinforcing the role of law enforcement.

Executive Mayor Cllr Fikile Mahlophe delivered a resolute speech, asserting that women must be treated "with care and respect and not as mere housewives." He also explicitly condemned cyberbullying, which often turns women into online victims, a topic further elaborated on by GCIS.

Mayor Mahlophe called on content creators to use their platforms to communicate positive messages about women and urged law enforcement agencies to arrest perpetrators of GBV.

In his closing remarks, the Mayor extended thanks to all the stakeholders for their contribution to the event's success and expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in the march.

Continuing the Fight for Equality

The 4km march served as a potent symbol of Klerksdorp's collective resolve to eradicate gender-based violence and create a society where all women and children can live free from fear and discrimination. The City of Matlosana remains committed to fostering an environment of respect, safety, and equality long after the 16 Days of Activism campaign concludes.

#TheGoToGuy #16DaysOfActivism #EndGBV #KlerksdorpJustice #Matlosana

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