Members of the ZF Mgcawu District Women’s Network and Men For Change, alongside law enforcement officials, attended the opening church service of the AME District Conference on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, in Paballelo, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community partnerships in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
The delegation was led by Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, Provincial Head of Pro-Active Policing, and Colonel Ambesiwe Qunta, the Women’s Network Provincial Champion. Also present were representatives from the Department of Correctional Services and Provincial Traffic, demonstrating a multi-sectoral approach to addressing GBVF.
The event highlighted the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) strategy of Partnership Policing, which involves engaging stakeholders, including religious institutions, to combat crime and social issues. Church leaders welcomed the attendees and pledged their support by committing to pray for law enforcement agencies and actively participating in initiatives to eradicate GBVF.
This initiative is one of many where SAPS collaborates with churches and government departments to amplify efforts against gender-based violence, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in creating safer environments.
