On the morning of 2 April, 2025, the streets of Potchefstroom filled with angry faces of many students, different youth political party leaders, and members of different societies within the North-West University demanding change and safety. As the crowd peacefully marched from Cachet Park to the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Office of Education and Sports Development, the purpose was clear:  To stand against gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse in schools, public spaces, and throughout South Africa. Their demand was echoed through posters and placards bearing message of hashtags like #AmINext, #JusticeNOW, #NoMoreSilence were held high and protest chants that were sang. The message was powerful – #StopGBV, #Enoughisenough #JusticeforAlu and all victims of GBV #JusticeforCwecwe, which triggered this whole march and social movement.

“Today is not just about Justice for Cwecwe, its justice for each and every individual whose innocence was taken advantage of, it’s justice for individuals who could not come forward and speak about what happened to them and who traumatised them, it’s justice for those who didn’t get help at police stations, it’s more than just for one person, It’s about each and every person in the country who was taken advantage of”  declared a student as he was sharing why showing up to the march was important.

During the march, there were moments of silence for the victims, serving as a time of reflection on the crises South Africa is experiencing.

With help from the law enforcement with traffic and road closures, the crowd continued to march the streets of Potchefstroom.  On the way to the district office, bystanders clapped and cheered in support in the stand against GBV. The crowd ended its march at the district office with the same spirit of determination from the beginning of the march and an anticipation to be heard.

A memorandum was handed over to the district director – Mrs Seokolo- outlining demands for change and increased safety measures in schools. As she accepted the memorandum, signatures were made to know who to hold accountable – signed by the district director, student societies and political societies. The crowd gave her a time frame of six months with hopes of feedback on the memorandum and implementation of policies.

Upon dispersing, the crowd walked back together to cachet park with the same determination, even after requests were made.

The turnout of people was significant within the university context because even with the upcoming assessment week, a crucial time for studying, students deemed it necessary to show up and stand against GBV and child abuse.

The social movement continues with people posting petitions on social media platforms for Justice for Cwecwe and standing against Gender-based violence and Femicide