The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Gender Forum in partnership with Umgeni Community Empowerment Centre (UCEC), a trusted Non-Profit Organisation serving the community for 22 years, will host the 12th Annual Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Walk in Durban on Saturday, 04 October 2025, starting from the Suncoast Lawns. This year’s theme, “Blow the Whistle on Crime – Shay’ Impempe,” calls on all South Africans to take a united stand against human trafficking and gender-based violence.
The DUT Gender Forum, has partnered with UCEC to strengthen this year’s campaign. This collaboration underscores the importance of higher education institutions, civil society and communities working together to confront gender-based violence (GBVF) and human trafficking.
The 5 kilometre awareness walk will highlight the urgent need to combat human trafficking, one of the fastest-growing and most devastating crimes worldwide, alongside gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), which continues to plague communities across South Africa.
Over the years, UCEC has been at the forefront of awareness campaigns, prevention initiatives and survivor support services, working tirelessly to protect vulnerable individuals and empower survivors. Through this annual walk, the organisation reaffirms its call to individuals, businesses, schools, faith-based groups and community leaders to unite in the fight against modern-day slavery.
Event Details:
Venue: Suncoast Lawns, Durban
Date: Saturday, 04 October 2025
Distance: 5 km Awareness Walk
Time: 06h30 – 12h00
“This walk is not just an event but a powerful movement of solidarity and hope. By walking together, we amplify the voices of the voiceless, raise awareness and inspire action to end human trafficking,” said Mrs Gloria de Gee, UCEC Director.
Echoing this sentiment, Ms Ronelle Lyson, PR and Marketing Coordinator of the DUT Gender Forum, said: “As DUT, we recognise the urgent need to create safe, just and inclusive spaces within and beyond our university community. Partnering with UCEC allows us to extend our commitment to ending GBVF and human trafficking, ensuring that our collective voice is louder and stronger against these injustices.”
The public is invited to participate, volunteer, or partner with UCEC and DUT to make this year’s walk the most impactful yet. Together, communities can shine a light on injustice and work toward a future free of exploitation.
Pictured: The Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Walk poster.
Ronelle Lyson
