A powerful community-driven initiative in Mothutlung is gaining international attention after hosting a high-level visit from a German Embassy representative, as part of efforts to combat gender-based violence and empower vulnerable residents.
The event, hosted by the Mothutlung Network Against Domestic Violence and Child Abuse, brought together key stakeholders including social workers, community leaders, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), and representatives from the Madibeng Local Municipality.
During the programme, stakeholders highlighted the urgent need to address gender-based violence affecting women, children, and increasingly men within the community. Social workers confirmed that while most reported cases involve women and children, men also suffer abuse but often remain silent.
The organisation outlined two major empowerment projects set to roll out, focusing on sewing and floriculture, aimed at equipping victims of abuse with practical skills to become financially independent.
“These projects are not for the organisation, they are for the community,” one official stated, emphasising that economic empowerment is key to breaking cycles of abuse.
The visiting German Embassy representative expressed strong interest in the initiative, noting that Germany’s micro-project funding supports grassroots programmes tackling inequality, gender-based violence, and community development.
The organisation’s founder reflected on a 21-year journey of resilience, revealing multiple failed funding applications before finally reaching this milestone.
“Hard work always pays off. We never gave up,” she said.
The centre also showcased innovative community solutions, including:
• A bakery supporting food security and income generation
• A sewing hub producing clothing and household items
• A gardening and recycling project promoting sustainability
Community leaders called for greater participation, especially from men, urging residents to take ownership of the initiative and expand its reach.
“This is not just a bakery. This is a movement,” one speaker said.
The programme is expected to officially begin in April, pending final funding approval, with plans to expand into neighbouring communities in future.