The BWI-affiliated National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Women's Structure on 15 August took a powerful stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by launching a new partnership with a key civil society organisation, the Africa Civic Education Foundation (ACEF). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the fight to protect the safety and dignity of those affected by GBVF, bringing together union organising and specialized community support. The program launch coincided with South Africa’s National Dialogue, focused on addressing the country's deep-seated challenges and forging a new social compact for the future.

The new program is strategically designed to address the root causes of GBVF. Speakers emphasised the urgent need to dismantle the standing structure of oppressive practices and systematic issues that perpetuate GBVF, starting with young people through education and open discussion. A key element of the partnership is its focus on prevention, breathing new life into Pillar 2 of South Africa’s National Action Plan on GBVF. The new program offers essential training in TVET colleges, universities, and communities, aiming to make GBVF education accessible to all. Comrade Nthabiseng Mashiteng (Secretary of the NUM Women’s Structure) outlined the program strategy, explaining that the program will initially use educational institutions to host sessions, then expand into various settings in the construction, mining, metal, and related sectors and workplaces. The initiative also includes a robust support system for those affected by GBVF. Such support includes online mental health and wellness (offered by Syked), police services, and so on.   

The launch event was a testament to the collective commitment to this cause, with powerful messages from a range of speakers, including from the program partners Phillip Mankge (NUM's Deputy General Secretary) and Dr George Peta (founder and CEO of ACEF); representatives from the state including Steve Letsike (Deputy Minister from the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities); and representatives education, business, standard maintaining entities; etc.

“This is not charity work, it is justice work”, said NUM Deputy General Secretary Phillip Mankge.

“The NUM Women’s Structure and ACEF will, through this joint initiative, tackle insidious and often-overlooked incidences of oppression and abuse in the world of work”,  NUM Women's Structure National Chair Magrett Gabanelwe said.

By bringing together NUM’s organising power and the specialised expertise of ACEF, NUM Women's Structure is not just taking a stand, it is building a new path toward a safer, more just future for all.