Central SA
1000 Women Trust to launch Remember Her monument in Welkom─── REFILWE BEKANE 10:00 Thu, 26 Mar 2026
The 1000 Women Trust, in partnership with the Lejweleputswa district municipality and the Matjhabeng local municipality, is preparing to unveil a permanent tribute to victims of violence.
This event is scheduled to take place on Friday (27/3) at 10:00 , focusing on the official launch of the Remember Her monument bench. The ceremony will be held at the Welkom flea market park, which is situated within the Matjhabeng municipality.
This initiative seeks to create a physical space for community healing, awareness, and the remembrance of those affected by gender-based violence and femicide. By establishing this site, the organisers intend to provide a lasting symbol of justice for women and children.
The monument is identified as the first of its kind in South Africa, marking a specific milestone in the national effort to address public safety and human rights. It serves as a call for continued action within local communities, emphasising that the stories of victims should remain a priority for the public.
The location was chosen to transform a simple space into a functional area of purpose and transformation. “This moment is not just an event, it is a powerful stand in remembrance of victims of gender-based Violence and femicide,” said an ambassador for the 1000 Women Trust, Cynthia Khumalo.
Significance and location
The Welkom flea market park will serve as the backdrop for this historic milestone, representing a shift from a vacant site to a place of social importance. This monument aims to ensure the victims' names and histories are acknowledged by the state and the public. It is designed to encourage residents to stand united against violence while promoting a culture of silence-breaking.
The partnership with local municipalities ensures that the site will be maintained as a public asset for the people of Welkom and the surrounding areas. Photo supplied
This unveiling is expected to draw attendance from various community members, local leaders, and advocacy groups who are focused on social justice. The bench itself acts as a functional piece of art, meant to facilitate reflection for those visiting the park.
The partnership with local municipalities ensures that the site will be maintained as a public asset for the people of Welkom and the surrounding areas. “Together, we honour, we remember, and we stand united against GBV,” said Khumalo.
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