Hundreds march in Durban to raise awareness on human trafficking and gender-based violence
A 5km walk, which aimed to raise awareness about human trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV), was held in Durban on Saturday.
Image: Leon Lestrade / Independent Newspapers
Hundreds of people gathered at the Suncoast Lawns in Durban on Saturday for the 12th Annual Anti-Human Trafficking and Gender-Based Violence Awareness Walk.
Hosted by the Umgeni Community Empowerment Centre (UCEC) and held under the theme “Blow the Whistle on Crime – Shay’ Impempe”, the 5km walk aimed to raise awareness about human trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV), which continue to affect communities across South Africa.
Under the leadership of Gloria De Gee, UCEC has been at the forefront of campaigns to prevent human trafficking and support survivors.
“People are not for sale. Our children are our future. It is up to us to partner with communities and businesses to stop this heinous crime against society,” said De Gee.
“South Africa has to have a ‘zero tolerance’ against human trafficking and gender-based violence. Educating our people, our youth, and empowering them is the only way to eliminate the devastating statistics,” the organisation said.
The Durban University of Technology (DUT), through its Gender Forum, joined the walk as part of its ongoing work to promote safety, equality, and justice within and beyond the university.
“As DUT, we recognise the urgent need to create safe, just, and inclusive spaces within and beyond our university community,” said Ronelle Lyson, PR and Marketing Coordinator of the DUT Gender Forum.
“Partnering with UCEC allows us to extend our commitment to ending GBVF and human trafficking, ensuring that our collective voice is louder and stronger against these injustices.”
UCEC stated that South Africa remains both a source and destination country for human trafficking.
“Often influential members of society are involved,” it warned, calling for stronger public education and community vigilance.
“People need to be aware and educated to minimise the risk posed to public safety. Education about human trafficking and gender-based violence will lead to prevention and protection of the most vulnerable in society,” UCEC added.
DUT said the partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration between higher education institutions and community organisations.