Indlezana Yezwe

01/08/2026

19/06/2026

CAPACITATING OUR ELDERLY LEADERS ON GBVF AND HUMAN RIGHTS

On 18 June 2026, Indlezana Yezwe, in partnership with the OR Tambo District Municipality and the Mthatha Jersey ) Farm Advice Centre, successfully facilitated a capacity-building training for the OR Tambo District Elderly Forum on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and Human Rights.

The training focused on the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF, equipping elderly forum members with knowledge and practical understanding of their role in preventing and responding to gender-based violence within their communities. Participants also engaged on key human rights principles, community advocacy, and the importance of protecting vulnerable groups.

We were honoured to have representation from all local municipalities within the OR Tambo District, namely:
📍 Ingquza Hill Local Municipality
📍 Port St Johns Local Municipality
📍 Nyandeni Local Municipality
📍 Mhlontlo Local Municipality
📍 King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality

The active participation and commitment demonstrated by the elderly forum members reaffirm the critical role that older persons play as community leaders, advocates, and agents of social change.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the OR Tambo District Municipality and the Mthatha Jesrsy Farm Advice Centre for their collaboration and commitment to building safer, more informed, and rights-based communities.

Together, we continue to strengthen community action against GBVF and promote the protection of human rights for all.


Border Rural Committee
DGMT
Sukuthula GBV Initiative
O.R Tambo District Municipality
End GBVF Collective

15/06/2026

Victim Empowerment Session | Mthatha | 11 June 2026

On 11 June 2026, Indlezana Yezwe, in partnership with the Eastern Cape Department of Community Safety and with the support of the Border Rural Committee, successfully hosted a Victim Empowerment Session in Mthatha. The programme focused on Pillar 3: Safety, Protection and Access to Justice and Pillar 5: Economic Empowerment of Victims of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

We were honoured by the presence and valuable contributions of the The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ & CD) , the Department of Labour, The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa (NPA), South African Police Service , Mthatha Women's Support Centre, Mthatha Legal Advice Centre, and the O.R Tambo District Municipality Special Programmes Unit (SPU).

The primary objective of the session was to promote the economic empowerment of victims and survivors of gender-based violence. Financial dependence often forces victims to remain in abusive relationships, and through this initiative, we sought to provide information, resources, and support that will enable survivors to become financially independent and rebuild their lives with dignity.

This intervention specifically targeted victims and survivors residing within the Mthatha Central Police Station precinct, one of the police stations that recorded a high number of gender-based violence cases according to the latest quarterly crime statistics released by SAPS.

As stakeholders, we remain committed to breaking the cycle of abuse by ensuring that victims have access to justice, protection services, and sustainable economic opportunities. Through collaboration and community-driven interventions, we can create safer communities where survivors are empowered, supported, and equipped to achieve lasting independence.

Indlezana Yezwe extends its sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, and participants who contributed to the success of this important initiative.


End GBVF Collective
Sukuthula GBV Initiative
DGMT
Indlezana Yezwe

04/06/2026

📢📢 Information sharing 📢📢

SAPS NOTICE REGARDING OFFICERS WHO REFUSE TO OPEN CASES

In light of increasing complaints that it is sometimes difficult to register cases at police stations, all citizens should be aware of the following SAPS National Instruction regarding the opening and registration of criminal cases.

Refusal by SAPS members to assist complainants in opening a criminal case is a violation of National Instruction 3 of 2011.

Know your rights as a complainant.
It has been reported that officers at various police stations are refusing to open cases, especially in matters involving women and children, for reasons such as:

The complainant cannot identify the suspect by name.
The complainant did not bring the suspect to the police station.
The crime did not occur within that police station’s jurisdiction.
The officer believes the case is not serious enough.
Complainants are told to resolve the matter themselves with the suspect.

❗ THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE.
What does National Instruction 3 of 2011 state?
1. A SAPS member who receives a complaint must interview the complainant to determine whether the complaint meets the requirements of the specific offence.

2. Complainants may never be referred to another police station, even if the crime occurred in another station’s area.

The Community Service Centre (CSC) must ensure that:

Complainants or persons reporting crimes are treated courteously.

A full sworn statement is taken from the complainant.

Complainants are not sent to another station to report a case.

All complaints receive immediate attention.

Disciplinary action

Cluster and Station Commanders must ensure that any member who does not comply with National Instruction 3 of 2011 is subjected to disciplinary action.

📢 Members of the public: Report it if a SAPS member refuses to open your case.

☎️ SAPS National Complaints Centre:
0800 333 177
0860 264 487

Know your rights. Do not walk away without your case being registered.

18/05/2026

CHILD PROTECTION MONTH | INDLEZANA YEZWE

As we observe Child Protection Month, Indlezana Yezwe proudly donated food and colouring books to the Children's and Sexual Offences Court in Mthatha.

No child should ever have to testify in court on an empty stomach. Every child deserves dignity, care, and support while seeking justice.

We applaud the dedicated efforts of the Mthatha Court The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ & CD) The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa in creating child-friendly spaces that help protect and comfort children during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Together, we can continue making our courts safer and more welcoming for children.

Let us stand united to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), stop child abuse, and protect the rights and wellbeing of every child.

A child-friendly justice system is a step toward healing, protection, and justice.


DGMT
Border Rural Committee
Sukuthula GBV Initiative
End GBVF Collective

31/03/2026

We are proud to have partnered with ORTambo District Municipality in hosting a meaningful GBVF Awareness and Prayer Program at Nodushe Village in Ngqeleni. 🤍

This important gathering brought together key stakeholders who continue to play a vital role in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. We were honored by the presence and contributions of SAPS, the NPA The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa , Department of Education (Libode), the Magistrate’s Office, Nyandeni Women’s Caucus, Council of Churches, and representatives from OR Tambo District Municipality.

The program created a safe space for dialogue, reflection, and unity through prayer as we collectively stand against the scourge of GBVF in our communities. It is through partnerships like these that we strengthen our response, raise awareness, and restore hope.

Let us continue working together to protect, support, and empower victims and survivors. The fight against GBVF is a shared responsibility. ✊🏽


Border Rural Committee
Sukuthula GBV Initiative
DGMT
South African Police Service