KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, joined the Mjilo family and mourners to bid a heartfelt farewell to Ayabonga Mjilo, whose life was tragically cut short due to gender-based violence.

A Nation in Mourning

Speaking at the funeral, Premier Ntuli expressed his deepest condolences to the Mjilo family and condemned the senseless violence that claimed Ayabonga’s life. “Today, we lay to rest not only a beloved daughter but also the dreams and potential of a young life stolen by a heinous act. Ayabonga’s story is one that must never be repeated,” he said.

Eradicating Gender-Based Violence

In his address, the Premier highlighted the urgent need for a united response to gender-based violence, calling it a societal crisis that demands immediate and sustained action.

“The fight against gender-based violence cannot be won by government alone. It requires collective efforts from communities, traditional leaders, and civil society. Together, we must create safe spaces for women and children and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions,” said Premier Ntuli.

Provincial Government Interventions

Premier Ntuli outlined several key interventions being implemented by the provincial government, including:
• Strengthening support services for victims of gender-based violence.
• Increasing community outreach programmes to raise awareness.
• Collaborating with law enforcement to ensure justice for victims and their families.

A Call for Action

The Premier urged mourners to honour Ayabonga’s memory by working together to build a society free of violence. “Each of us has a role to play in ensuring that no woman or child suffers as Ayabonga did. Let her story inspire us to act decisively and with compassion,” he concluded.

The funeral served as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gender-based violence, reinforcing the province’s resolve to fight for justice and equality for all.

ENDS