In true Pioneering spirit and in line with being a responsive operation, Pioneers took actionand raised their voices to commemorate and show solidarity with the country as the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children that took place from 25 November – 10 December.
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (also known as the 16 Days Campaign) is a United Nations campaign which takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day). Both days are significant as the plight of gender-based violence cuts across nations, geography, colour, or creed.
Heeding the call, Exxaro Belfast Coal’s WIM and People Living with Disabilities (PLWD) committees stepped forward to lead the mobilisation of Pioneers. Pioneers were invited to stand together, walk in solidarity, and raise their voices against the scourge of violence.
This year, Pioneers showed up by undertaking a Walk to a Violence-Free Space to honour those who have lost their lives to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), as well as to support survivors within our workplace and communities. This was a united stand against all forms of abuse and was significantly demonstrated by wearing Black T-shirts, Black pants, a colour that we associate with mourning, and indicating the solemnness of this period.
Bridget Masango MP (DA Spokesperson on Social Development), stated in Nov 2024 that “Every hour, 15 women and children become victims of gender-based violence – at least.”
The walk from the T-junction entering the mine was a show of support, readiness to raise awareness, and mobilise change.
The spirit of activism buzzed as Pioneers displayed their concerns through placards, engaged in thought-provoking dialogue, held an awareness rally, and participated in the ultimate pledge ceremony.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) Emakhazeni Unit and Exxaro Belfast Coal’s business partners showed great support for this initiative, showing that they are aware of the devastation that GBVF has on women and children, and the social fabric of our society.
Call to action: Belfast Coal urges every Pioneer to keep the momentum, break the silence both inside and outside the workplace, use your voice to save a life, and drive the campaign’s vision forward.
Together, let’s build a violence-free future.
