A powerful show of solidarity unfolded at Princess Vlei on Heritage Day, as thousands of people came together to stand against the violence facing women and children in South Africa.

People came out in their numbers on Thursday, 24 September 2026, taking part in a solidarity walk organised by One Billion Rising South Africa.

The organisation says more than 2,000 people of all ages joined the walk, sending a strong message that communities are demanding an end to gender-based violence and standing with survivors and victims.

Coordinator Lucinda Evans says now that the walk is over, her next step is to meet with the Western Cape Police Commissioner.

“I am going to make an intentional meeting with the provincial commissioner of the Western Cape Police Service, and a delegation from various communities will go with me. We want him to show us his plans for all his police stations, to show us what they have planned to address the scourge of GBV in the province. We will not just sit idly now that the walk is over. We now have to take the necessary actions.”

Western Cape MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais says communities also need to play their part in tackling gender-based violence.

Marais took part in One Billion Rising South Africa’s solidarity walk at Princess Vlei yesterday. She says policing alone cannot make the country safer and is urging residents to stand up against abuse and help create spaces where everyone feels safe.

“I want to encourage every community and social group to organise themselves. Create safety networks and look out for each other. When we are organised, we displace vulnerability. If you see abuse, speak up, don’t look away. GBV and femicide steal our safety, our dignity and future and in many cases leads to death. Policing alone will not fix this mess.”

Meanwhile, speaking at the National Heritage Day celebrations in Oudtshoorn, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that he will address the nation soon on government’s plans to confront gender-based violence and femicide.

He will also provide an update on the ongoing investigation into the killings of nine women in and around Ekurhuleni.

The president says the country cannot ignore the pain and suffering that women continue to face, describing violence against women as a national shame.

“I am ashamed of what we men are doing to the women of South Africa. The women have the right to walk the streets of this country at any hour, at any minute, without any fear.”

 

Also read: Call for action against GBV on Heritage Day