Email lerato@thereporternews.co.za | 0820747215
- Limpopo regional leaders legit Mbalula - October 8, 2025
- Lapa la ga-Nkuna la go atelwa ke thari le hloka thušo ka potlako - October 3, 2025
- CGCSA Hosts Inaugural Food Safety and Sustainability Seminar - October 2, 2025
Authorities in Limpopo have vowed to spare no effort in the fight against Gender Based Violence.
The renewed commitment was made as the province celebrated the life of Gogo Nomgqibelo Mahlangu, a centenary who a few years ago was attacked in her home in Zaaiplaas outside Groblersdal in Sekhukhune.
Mahlangu turned 102 on the 13th and the provincial government threw a party for her which was attended by among others Premier Phophi Ramathuba and provincial police commissioner
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe as well as other high ranking officials.
With the life expectancy of women in South Africa currently at 69, Mahlangu is regarded as having lived a long life and as resilient.
Mahlangu is also regarded as the oldest survivor of GBV and the Premier said her survival from the ordeal was a reminder of the importance of positive societal values, a sense of community and the institution of family.
“ That attack was not just on her body. It was on her spirit, on the safety of our elders, and on the very fabric of who we are as people. And yet, here
she is today, surrounded by her family, her community, and her government, standing tall in her humanity, reminding us that no act of
violence can erase the worth of a human life,” said Ramathuba.
She also the police for exceptional work in investigating the incident and for the successful prosecution of the perpetrator on the strength of DA and other evidence with the suspect expected to be sentenced on wednesday.
“
Thanks to the diligent efforts of our SAPS members, supported by forensic pathology experts,
DNA evidence linked the perpetrator directly to this horrific crime. The culprit has been arrested,” said the Premier.
Ramathuba said the celebration of Mahlangu’s life had to be coupled with a pushback against crime, in particular GBV which said reached pandemic levels.
“
Today, we celebrate Gogo Mahlangu’s life. But let me be clear: we also stand here to say that what happened to her must never happen to another
woman, child, or elder in our communities.
Gender-based violence and femicide are not a women’s issue, it is a societal crisis. It has reached pandemic levels. In Vhembe District alone,
we have recorded 10 deaths from gender-based violence in the past few days,” said Ramathuba.
Despite her age, Mahlangu is regarded as generally healthy and in good spirits.
