​The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with the Sukumani Sakhesizwe Community Project, hosted a community dialogue last Saturday, 15 February 2025, under the theme "Love, Respect, and Dignity." Held at Luyolo Primary School in Emndeni, Soweto, the event aimed to empower over 100 beneficiaries by raising awareness on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), elderly abuse, child neglect, and family disputes.
In his welcome address, Mr. Bonga Mabaso, a founding member of the Sukumani Sakhesizwe Community Project, highlighted the urgent need for intervention in cases of GBV and abuse. This Non-Profit Organisation (NPO), established in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, was founded in response to the alarming rise in GBV cases.
"We needed an NPO that would serve as the mouthpiece for the vulnerable. Today, we are here to speak about love, dignity, and respect because of the high cases of GBV, elderly abuse, and neglect. It's also an opportunity to share ideas on how best to address these issues," said Mabaso.
He also raised concerns about the growing burden on elderly citizens, who are often forced to become primary caregivers for their grandchildren. "Many do not realise how blessed they are to have grandparents. Today, the elderly are the breadwinners in their households, expected to share their Old Age Grants, while parents misuse Child Support Grants for personal benefit," he added.
Despite not yet receiving government funding, Mabaso expressed gratitude to the Department of Social Development for its ongoing support and remained hopeful that their funding application would soon be approved.
The dialogue featured representatives from various government departments, who provided crucial insights and support services:
Home Affairs representative, Mr. Ndwandwe stressed the importance of registering births within 30 days, explaining that a birth certificate is essential for obtaining an ID, securing employment, and exercising the right to vote. He also urged the community to report the illegal sale of fake identity documents.
Another stakeholder from Human Settlements represented by Mr. Kabelo Setshedi, encouraged community members to draft wills to prevent disputes over property inheritance. His advice was reinforced by Sihle Zungu, a community member who shared her personal experience of family conflict due to the absence of a will.
Community Safety's Ms. Vatiswa Nkuzo highlighted the role of Social Crime Prevention Units, which educate residents about their rights and available services. She also reassured attendees that victim empowerment centres at police stations provide professional assistance to victims of GBV.
South African Police Service (SAPS) was represented by Captain Gasela from Naledi Police Station who urged victims of abuse to report cases and warned against withdrawing charges. He condemned officers who encourage family mediation for GBV cases, emphasizing that such matters should be handled by the justice system. 
Department of Health through Mr. Rikhotso provided crucial information on the handling of rape cases, stating that evidence collection must occur within three days and urging victims not to bathe before reporting the crime. He reassured attendees that even historical cases could still be reported and investigated. 
Inkosi Mtimande Ngwenya from Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA) acknowledged the reluctance of hostel residents to report crimes due to fear of victimisation. He discouraged resolving GBV cases through traditional means and strongly opposed cultural practices that perpetuate abuse.
The event concluded with a dialogue session, allowing residents to voice their concerns directly to stakeholders. In a particularly moving moment, a community member shared her struggle with the Department of Home Affairs over a surname correction on her son's ID. In response Mr. Ndwandwe personally assured her that the issue would be resolved, providing his contact details for follow-ups.
This impactful dialogue strengthened the Department of Social Development's commitment to empowering communities by fostering open conversations and connecting residents with the necessary support services.