KZN Premier calls for unity to end gender-based violence at Edendale prayer service
|Published
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reiterated the call for collective action against gender-based violence (GBV) and social ills during a prayer service at St Martin's Church in Edendale, Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.
Addressing congregants at the service, which had the theme Inspiring New Hope, the Premier emphasised the crucial role of faith-based organisations in fostering moral regeneration and combating societal challenges.
“The spiritual foundation provided by churches and faith-based organisations is crucial in the fight against the social ills that plague our province,” said Ntuli.
“Together, through faith and action, we can create a safer and more hopeful future for all.”
During the service, the Premier prayed for an end to GBV, which continues to ravage communities across the province.
He urged congregants to actively participate in efforts to eradicate violence against women and children and expressed his commitment to ensuring that the Provincial Government's 2025 priorities inspire hope and deliver tangible change.
The prayer service came amid widespread mourning for 21-year-old Ayabonga Mjilo, who was kidnapped and murdered on Christmas Day.
Ntuli commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for swiftly arresting a suspect, identified as Mjilo’s manager.
Mjilo’s body was discovered at the suspect's home in Amaotana, Inanda, after she was last seen leaving a restaurant in uMhlanga.
“On behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal government, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Ayabonga Mjilo,” said Ntuli.
“Losing a young woman in such a brutal manner is a devastating tragedy. We stand in solidarity with the family as they mourn this heartbreaking loss and will continue to support them as they seek justice for Ayabonga.”
The Premier also urged the judiciary to impose the harshest punishment for such heinous crimes. “The brutal killing of Ayabonga is a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead in our mission to end gender-based violence,” he said.
“KwaZulu-Natal has no place for individuals who commit these atrocities.”
Premier Ntuli called on traditional authorities, community leaders, and citizens to join forces in addressing the alarming rate of GBV in the province.
“Violence against women is an affront to our values of Ubuntu and humanity. This scourge demands collective action,” he said.
“We must stand as one, with a united voice, to condemn these acts of violence and reaffirm our commitment to building safe, inclusive communities.”
The Premier will attend the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday, January 6, to support Ayabonga’s family during the suspect’s appearance.