By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
1 December 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape in partnership with the Regional Interdenominational Ministers Wives Association (INDAMWASA) hosted a church service in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley in commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign. The service was held on 27 November 2025, at the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa in Galeshewe Township.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the event was attended by congregants dressed in black with purple ribbons to symbolise solidarity with victims of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). Litabe said the SAPS members, Community Policing Forum (CPF) representatives and key stakeholders were also in attendance. Litabe said senior SAPS officials, including Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, the Provincial Head of Proactive Policing and Brigadier Terry Bosman from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, together with the Galeshewe Ministers Fraternal (GAMIFRA), the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Northern Cape and the SAPS Men for Change Association and Women’s Network, supported the initiative.
“Kopeledi strongly condemned the abuse of women and children, calling for collective action to end GBVF. Lieutenant Colonel (Reverend) Naledi Otswelwang addressed the congregation on behalf of SAPS Men for Change, urging men to take responsibility and reaffirming the message that violence has no place in society.
“The service was officiated by Reverend Sello Mothelesi of the Native Independent Congregational Church in Galeshewe, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony in remembrance of GBVF victims. The SAPS band played hymns and the programme was directed by Ms Nomampondomise Vika,” he said.
Litabe further said events commemorating this worthy annual campaign will continue unabated to create awareness regarding crimes against women and children and the eradication thereof.
The Guardian 