In anticipation of 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a walk against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia will be held in Pretoria tomorrow.

“The 2.5km walk will be done to remember LGBTQIA+ community members who were murdered because of their sexuality,” said Social Development spokesperson Lumka Oliphant. “In addition, the LGBTQIA+ community will have a platform to learn about their basic constitutional rights, mental health, and resources available to enhance their quality of life on this day.” 

Three Central South Africans will also be remembered during Friday’s (24/11) walk starting at 08:00 in the National Botanical Gardens.

Social Development minister, Lindiwe Zulu, will lead the walk. Picture: Facebook/Department of Social Development

These include Sam Mbatha (24) from North West, whose death sent shockwaves through the NWU community as he was an old student and current staff member. His body was found burnt in his car at a soccer field in Klipgat, Ikageng Section in 2021.

The body of Ntokozo Motloung (27) from Vereeniging was found in the bushes, and Nathaniel Mbele was stabbed in the chest in Vanderbijlpark.

Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu will lead the walk, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Social Development Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu.

‘Three Central South Africans will also be remembered during Friday’s walk’

This year’s theme is ‘Accelerating Actions to End Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: Leaving No One Behind’.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame Corné/Dane Beisheim