National Shutdown Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide by 1000 Women Trust Organisation.
Thabo Motlhabi
The 1000 Women Trust Organisation, in collaboration with various stakeholders, held a powerful march in Kagiso 2 on November 21, 2025, as part of the National Shutdown against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
The march began at Kagiso 2 Sebensiza Drive, Sonap, and ends at Kagiso Police Station. It took place one day before the Historical G20 Leaders Summit hosted in Johannesburg in Nersec, where the organisers hoped to draw the attention of the current government and global leaders to the urgent crisis of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa.
Call for Gender-Based Violence and Femicide to be Declared a National Disaster
The key demand of the march was for the South African government to declare gender-based violence as a national disaster/pandemic, allocate sustainable funding to NGOs supporting survivors, and strengthen the justice system to ensure that every gender-based violence case is handled with seriousness and urgency.
The campaign also served to empower victims and encourage them to speak out about abuse, whether at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces.
Voices of Courage and Leadership
Speaking as a National Ambassador, Survivor, and a Boardmember of the 1000 Women Trust, Mrs Palesa Mboweni delivered a powerful message:
“We walk not only in protest but in remembrance, in honour, and in hope. Gender-based violence will not silence us. Together, we are raising a generation that refuses violence, fear, and silence. Let us stand firm, support one another, and follow through with our cases. Our unity is our strength, and our courage is the beginning of change.”
Her words ignited strength, unity, and commitment among those present. She also called all women who are survivors of abuse to come forward and work with the organisation for support and justice.
Survivor Testimony: A Cry for Justice
Among the participants was Miss Khulu Moeme, a rape survivor from Kagiso 1, who bravely shared her story:
“I encouraged all women, both young and old, to take care of themselves and be aware of their surroundings. I was raped after my perpetrator spiked my drink during an outing late last year. My case has not been taken seriously. My perpetrator is walking freely and enjoying his life. I asked myself, am I safe? I live in fear, not knowing if he will come back again. I went to the courts dealing with such cases, but nothing was done. I emailed the commissioner, but still nothing happened. Organisations dealing with such cases told me they’re still investigating. I feel our justice system has failed me and many other victims. We deserve equal services and protection.”
Her testimony highlighted the deep systematic failure that survivors continue to face.
Message of Hope and Solidarity
Throughout the march, participants chanted messages of hope and solidarity, and many carried placards with motivational messages, honouring victims and supporting survivors.
A Moment of Silence and a Call for Action
The campaign concluded at the Kagiso Police Station, where participants held a moment of silence for victims of gender-based violence and femicide. They called on the station commander and the entire police force to treat gender-based violence cases with seriousness, urgency, and compassion, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.