Government has encouraged all South Africans to remember the victims of Gender Based Violence and Covid-19, as the country marks 5 days of remembrance which starts on Wednesday 25 November.

It coincides with the start of the 16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children. South Africans have been asked to wear a black armband, or black clothing, to show their respect.

The first activity of the day will be the raising of the South African flag to half-mast at the Union Buildings at 06:00, and also at state institutions across all 9 provinces.

The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Maite Nkoana-Mashabane says President Cyril Ramaphosa will hold a virtual dialogue with South Africans, starting at 17:00 on Wednesday.

Maite Nkoana-Mashabane says women need to be empowered economically, which is an integral part to stop femicide, and abuse against women.

You can access her full speech here: https://www.gov.za/speeches/violence-against-women-and-children-campaign-2020-24-nov-2020-0000

The Minister has urged everyone in society to speak up if they see abuse happening in their communities.

Police Minister Bheki Cele, who also spoke at the launch event, says crimes against women and children in South Africa are at crisis levels. Cele has expressed his deep dismay over the violence against the most vulnerable in society, calling it the “shame of the nation.”

South Africa will hold five days of remembrance from 25 – 29 November to remember the victims of #GBV.

Wear a black armband or other sign of mourning as we pay our respects says Min @maite_nkoana. #16DaysOfActivism #StopGBV #EnoughIsEnough pic.twitter.com/BJLN51pGF2

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) November 24, 2020