Free State treasury MEC, Ketso Makume spoke at the planetarium on Naval Hill in Bloemfontein on Tuesday (22/9) during a campaign against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The provincial initiative, themed Stand together against GBV, Let’s End Silence, brought together government officials and other stakeholders to strengthen awareness and prevention efforts.

A prayer session against GBV was led by Free State treasury MEC, Ketso Makume in the planetarium on Naval Hill in Bloemfontein. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Makume delivered a pledge against GBVF as concern continues to grow over violence against women. Recent cases include the discovery of women’s bodies in Kempton Park and an alleged attack on a young couple near the Uitsig Cemetery in Bloemfontein on Monday.

A video circulating on social media alleges that the woman was stripped, assaulted and nearly raped in Memorial Street while her boyfriend’s hands and feet were tied. She reportedly escaped towards the main road and received help from a motorist, while her boyfriend later managed to free himself and follow her.

Makume said a provincial committee involving the police, social development, health and other departments has been established to deal with GBV-related matters. Communities should also become more vigilant and establish neighbourhood structures capable of identifying risks and helping vulnerable women before violence escalates.

The provincial government is also working to ensure victims know what steps to take after an attack and what assistance should be available when they report cases. Makume said the handling of rape complaints has improved, including greater awareness among male police officers of the sensitivity required when dealing with survivors.

People who attended the prayer session against GBV in Bloemfontein. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Two survivors attending the event shared their experiences of sexual violence. One, a former Park Road police officer, was raped by Bloemfontein religious leader Moshebelele Michael Lebajoa, who was sentenced in 2023 to twelve years’ imprisonment.

Lebajoa admitted having sexual intercourse with the woman but denied rape. Evidence before the court also showed that elders from his congregation and his wife had approached the victim in an attempt to reconcile with her before his arrest.

Makume said prevention must begin before inappropriate behaviour develops into something more serious, particularly in workplaces. “Something like a joke which has sexual connotations has a problem that tomorrow it could lead to an insult,” he warned, adding that insults could ultimately develop into violent confrontations.

More guests at the prayer session. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Acting Free State treasury head Pakiso Lebone said the province also wants men to take greater responsibility for protecting women and girls. That responsibility should extend beyond workplaces into homes and communities, with harmful conduct challenged wherever it occurs.

About 500 GBV cases were registered in Mangaung during the 2025/26 financial year, according to previous OFM News reporting. The figure has reinforced concern about the metro’s vulnerability to gender-based violence and the need for prevention programmes alongside stronger support for survivors.

Free State social development spokesperson Thembile Nqabeni said interventions include shelters offering safe accommodation, counselling, psychological care and material assistance. Thuthuzela Care Centres also provide trauma and psychosocial support, while social workers remain available after hours to assist people affected by violence.

Prevention efforts include the 365 Days GBVF prevention programme, aimed at strengthening social cohesion and reducing violence in communities. Perpetrators referred through the courts may also receive psycho-social support designed to confront harmful behaviour and reduce the risk of repeated violence.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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