As part of the build-up to the Provincial Freedom Day celebrations set for (02/05), the Executive Mayor of Mangaung Metro Municipality, Gregory Nthatisi, joined provincial leaders and residents at a Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Prayer Service held in Grassland, Bloemfontein.

Speaking at the event, Nthatisi emphasised that South Africa's progressive constitution demands the protection of the rights of all citizens– especially women, children, and persons with disabilities. Yet, he acknowledged communities such as Grassland continue to face high rates of crime, particularly gender-based violence.

“This area consistently ranks high for crime rates related to GBVF and harassment. We came here today to encourage our people to be part of building a peaceful society. "He noted many residents of Grassland are victims of South Africa’s difficult past under apartheid, having moved from rural areas to urban centres in search of a better life.“The frustrations from that era still linger, contributing to high crime rates in these communities.”

Mayor Nthatisi praised the religious leaders who participated in the prayer service, highlighting their strong calls for discipline among men. “Our priests outshone themselves by emphasising the importance of self-discipline, particularly among men, to prevent the harassment and abuse of women and children.” He stressed that spiritual outreach must be combined with practical action. "Together with the police, we must establish community-based structures that can address and prevent these crimes daily.”

The metro, according to Nthatisi, is actively involving men and boys in its efforts to combat GBVF. He explained that safety and security initiatives are being launched across cities and townships to form bodies that will monitor and address household attacks and misconduct, particularly those involving substance abuse. “ Our youth must be protected. A society that does not see a bright future for its youth is doomed.”

Addressing the question of whether prayer can meaningfully impact the fight against GBVF, Mayor Nthatisi firmly endorsed the role of spirituality. “Healing the abnormalities in society requires multiple approaches. We must never abandon spirituality and religion as tools for speaking to the hearts and minds of our people. Churches play a vital role in healing our communities, including those individuals who have become perpetrators.”

On Friday, (02/05), Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, Nthatisi, and the Executive Council will lead a Provincial Freedom Day event in the same area under the theme: ‘United in Resilience for the Defense of Our Freedom and Democracy.’

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi lh