Kimberley: 02 November 2023 - The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lt Gen Koliswa Otola hosted the Gender Based Violence and Femicide(GBVF) Inter-Faith/Moral Regeneration Prayer Service at the Galeshewe Traffic Circle in Kimberley on Thursday, 02 November 2023, under the theme: Mark 4:39 "Let Jesus say something in the midst of your challenge." The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Maj Gen Mmantsheke Lekhele, the SAPS Provincial Management, Faith Based Organisations, Departments of Transport Safety and Liaison, Correctional Services, Traffic, the Red Cross, Provincial Spiritual Crime Prevention, the community and several other relevant role players were in attendance.
The event commenced with a motorcade and prayer walk led by male spiritual leaders from Galeshewe Police Station at 09:00 and proceeded to the Galeshewe Circle.
The church service was opened with interfaith prayers by different religious leaders and the welcoming address delivered by Frances Baard District Commissioner, Maj Gen Johan Bean. The Provincial Chairperson for Spiritual Crime Prevention, Rev Shimane Morake outlined that the service was focused on Gender Based Violence and Femicide and seen as a build-up to the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign. Messages of support were offered by the Moral Regeneration Movement from the Premier's Office, GAMIFRA, the Rastafarian Community and the Provincial Community Police Board.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Otola during her keynote address reiterated that policing GBVF remains one of her priorities in combating crime in the province and efforts are reinforced to address all contact crimes. Actions will be more focused, intensified and enhanced on GBVF during 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the Festive Season and beyond by ensuring more boots on the ground and working with our CPF, Crime Fighting Organisations, Community in Blue Patrollers and all other relevant stakeholders. Operation Shanela actions will be enhanced and intensified throughout the province specifically focusing on hotspot areas.
The sermon of the day was directed by Presiding Elder Bernett Phoko. Intercessory prayers focusing on GBVF, Police safety, the Festive Season, youth and substance abuse were offered by church leaders.
The day was concluded with the vote of thanks by Maj Gen Lekhele who appreciated the programme director, Mr Abraham Tsoone, Provincial Pro- Active Crime Prevention for spearheading the event in-conjunction with all relevant role-players, sponsors and the community.