This poignant statement captures the dire state of the Vaal Triangle in Gauteng Province. The Vaal suffers from high poverty, limited municipal services, environmental degradation, and persistent violence.

The Letsema intervention, initiated in late 2013, addresses the deep-seated social issues in the Vaal, particularly gender-based violence (GBV). The economic decline has left many residents jobless and impoverished, leading to various widespread concerns, including substance abuse, sexual violence, and gang involvement. Basic services are often inadequate, with frequent water disconnections and poor lighting exacerbating the struggles.

Through Letsema, Labour Research Service and Gender at Work supported a diverse coalition of local stakeholders – including trade unions, community organisations and forums, traditional healers, church groups, local media, universities, and government departments – to address GBV. Letsema integrates feminist leadership with principles of organisation and community development in a Gender Action Learning (GAL) programme.

Letsema is challenging social norms and empowering people to reduce gender-based violence. Participants use innovative learning tools and action-based strategies to create and implement their own solutions. This approach tackles immediate issues and inspires a broader movement in the Vaal. Activists are mentoring new communities to embrace gender equality.

The success of Letsema – with methodologies focused on inclusivity, collective impact, and community-driven solutions – offers valuable insights into addressing GBV in society. Our collaboration with unions and institutions such as the UK’s Manchester University aims to replicate the Letsema collective impact process, potentially reaching more communities in South Africa.