As the province moves toward the provincial Freedom Day celebrations on 2 May, leaders reaffirm that true freedom can only be realised when communities are safe, equal, and free from violence.

The Free State provincial government remains deeply concerned about the impact of GBVF on communities and has committed to strengthening its interventions through research, stakeholder partnerships, and targeted resource allocation.

Speaking at a GBVF prayer service in Grassland, Bloemfontein, Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae said while the province and country face ongoing challenges, it remains crucial to celebrate Freedom Day — but in a way that speaks to the realities communities experience daily.

This year, the Free State Provincial Government decided to move away from traditional stadium gatherings and instead host a Freedom Day that focuses directly on urgent social issues, especially gender-based violence. "If you go to a stadium and you have people singing praises, others sit and wonder, 'what is there to celebrate?' especially when women and children are still affected by GBV."

The Premier said the provincial celebrations were deliberately hosted in a high-priority area identified through police crime statistics. "One of the police stations here, Bainsvlei, is consistently among the top 30 stations reporting GBV cases nationally. It's really embarrassing, and we have to act."

As part of the week's programme, provincial departments have been working in the community, repairing roads to improve access for police and emergency services. "When people report cases, the police and EMS struggle to reach them because of the poor roads. So, part of our Freedom Day commitment is practical — to fix infrastructure and support victims better."

Acting director general Dr Mafole Mokalobe said GBVF remains one of the most pressing social crises not only in the Free State but across the country.

“As the provincial government, we have initiated a number of critical programmes aimed at combating GBV and femicide. These campaigns are championed by Premier Letsoha-Mathae and focus on changing behaviour, particularly among young boys, to address harmful power relations rooted in culture and socialisation.”

Community-based research to inform interventions

Dr Mokalobe highlighted the importance of accurate data in shaping government responses. He explained that the province's research units, in collaboration with universities, academics, the Department of Justice, and the South African Police Service are gathering data to assess which communities are most affected by GBV.

“Precise assessment is crucial. We need to know where the most affected areas are, what interventions are necessary, and how to prioritise our resources accordingly.”

Budget Allocations and Economic Empowerment

While noting that budget allocations specifically earmarked for GBV prevention and survivor support exist, Dr Mokalobe stressed that broader economic empowerment is also a key part of the strategy.

“Nationally, there is a gender-based allocation to departments, focusing on the empowerment of women through procurement mechanisms and opportunity creation. Economic empowerment loosens the power dynamics that often leave women vulnerable to abuse.”

According to Mokalobe, while allocations may not always be explicitly labelled for GBV, measures such as inclusive procurement practices and skills development play a major role in addressing the root causes of gender inequality and violence.

Accountability and justice

Responding to concerns about official accountability, Dr Mokalobe said the judicial system, supported by the police, plays a crucial role in ensuring perpetrators are punished appropriately.

“We continue to drive the message that perpetrators of GBV must receive long sentences. Officials have the responsibility to report GBV cases, implement the national gender-based violence strategy, and address the social and economic conditions that perpetuate violence.”

Artists and athletes must lead the fight against GBV

In turn, Free State MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Ntombizanele Sifuba, called on artists, athletes, and community leaders to become ambassadors in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

“GBV is a serious problem that we are facing. In every programme that we run, we make sure to talk about GBV. We believe that through sports, arts, and culture, we can reach people’s hearts and change mindsets.”

Sifuba revealed that a new departmental initiative is being launched where artists will be at the forefront of the campaign. “We are going to bring artists to perform plays, create visual arts displays, and use their talents to highlight the scourge of violence against women and children. Through creativity, we can build stronger awareness and call for real change.”

Promoting discipline and positive role models

Addressing concerns that cultural events sometimes reinforce gender stereotypes, Sifuba insisted that discipline is a non-negotiable part of any participation in sports, arts, and culture initiatives. “We always preach that you cannot engage in these activities without discipline. We urge sportsmen, sportswomen, and artists alike to become ambassadors who actively speak against gender-based violence.”

She highlighted recent efforts, such as the Marumo Gallants Wellness Programme, where players and artists were encouraged to advocate for GBV awareness within their communities. “We tell our musicians to sing songs against GBV and urge players to be vocal ambassadors in their streets and neighborhoods.”

A call to cultural influencers and families

MEC Sifuba appealed to cultural influencers, community leaders, and parents to embrace their critical role in shaping a future free from violence. “It was a long road for us to achieve the freedom we celebrate today. Let us use this freedom to build communities where safety, respect, and dignity are the norm.”

She called on parents to be mindful of how they raise boys, stressing the importance of nurturing a new generation of respectful men. “Remember, the young boy you are raising today will be someone’s husband tomorrow. Raise him to value and respect women and life itself.

On Friday, (02/05), Letsoha-Mathae, the Executive Mayor of Mangaung Metro Municipality, Gregory Nthatisi, and the Executive Council will lead a Provincial Freedom Day event in the same area. This year’s commemoration of Freedom Day will be held under the theme: ‘United in Resilience for the Defense of Our Freedom and Democracy.’

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi