BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
HLATIKHULU– Police officers, residents and community leaders gather in Hlatikhulu for a fun run organised by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) while strengthening cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
The initiative, held under the theme Marathon of Love, is coordinated by REPS through the Hlatikhulu Police Station in partnership with various stakeholders. Participants compete in 5km, 10km and 25km races as part of an awareness drive that highlights key issues affecting communities, including GBV, crime prevention, road safety, mental health and youth empowerment.
Among those attending the event are the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, the Mtsambama Member of Parliament, Sibongile Mamba, local chiefs and the mayor of Hlatikhulu, reflecting strong support from government and community leadership.
Addressing participants, Nzima praises the initiative and highlights the role of sport in bringing communities together around important social causes. “Sport brings people together and provides an effective platform to spread messages that matter to society. Through activities like this, communities are encouraged to unite and stand firmly against gender-based violence,” he said.
Police officials explain that the event forms part of broader community policing efforts aimed at strengthening trust between officers and residents while encouraging public participation in crime prevention.
“This marathon sends a clear message that the fight against gender-based violence requires the involvement of everyone in the community,” a police representative said .Participants from different areas take part in the races, turning the event into both a sporting activity and a community engagement platform. The atmosphere is marked by enthusiasm as runners, supporters and organisers work together to promote awareness and solidarity.
Several organisations and local businesses support the event through sponsorship, helping ensure the success of the races and encouraging wider community involvement.
Organisers say initiatives such as the Marathon of Love demonstrate how partnerships between the police, community leaders and stakeholders can contribute to safer and more supportive communities.
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(Courtesy Pic)
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