The Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with the DUT Gender Forum and the Umgeni Community Empowerment Centre (UCEC), hosted a powerful 5km Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Walk on Saturday, 4 October 2025, at Suncoast Lawns.
The walk aimed to raise awareness about the realities of human trafficking and encourage collective action against this global crime that continues to affect countless lives.
The event drew an impressive turnout of DUT students, staff, and alumni who came together in solidarity to advocate for justice, safety, and human dignity. Participants arrived at the venue as early as 06h30 for registration, followed by an energising welcome and warm-up session before the walk officially began. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, unity, and a shared commitment to amplifying the message of hope and freedom.
The walk was officially opened by DUT alumnus and popular East Coast Radio DJ Sbu, who proudly represented the DUT spirit of resilience, compassion, and togetherness. In his opening remarks, DJ Sbu emphasised the significance of the event and the need for continuous awareness. “This walk is not just about awareness it is about action, compassion, and unity. Every step we take today is a step toward freedom for those trapped in human trafficking. As a DUT graduate, I am proud to see my university leading initiatives that bring real change in society,” he said.
Adding a dynamic element to the morning’s programme was Marrisa Groenewald, widely known as The Rope Runner. Her presence inspired participants to stay motivated, strong, and aware of the power of using one’s platform to create change. She encouraged the crowd to view the walk as both a symbolic and practical stand against exploitation and injustice.
Human trafficking remains one of the most severe human rights violations, with thousands of victims falling prey to forced labour, sexual exploitation, and other forms of modern slavery. Events like this walk serve as a vital reminder that awareness and education are key tools in preventing such crimes.
According to Dr Rosaline Govender, Chairperson of the DUT Gender Forum, the success of the walk reflects DUT’s deep commitment to building a socially responsible and aware student community. “It was heartwarming to see such a great response from DUT staff and students. We value this partnership with UCEC to raise awareness and join the fight against human trafficking. Human trafficking is a pandemic in Southern Africa, and it requires multi-level interventions to stop it,” said Dr Govender. She further emphasised that the university’s partnership with organisations like UCEC strengthens its role as a socially conscious institution that advocates for equality, justice, and safety.
Third-year Homoeopathy student Thembelihle Ndlovu shared her excitement about being part of the walk and expressed how meaningful the experience was for her. “I am truly honoured to be part of this initiative. It feels empowering to walk alongside other DUT students for such an important cause. Events like this remind us that awareness is the first step toward change, and as young people, we have a role to play in ending human trafficking,” she said.
The initiative forms part of DUT’s ENVISION 2030 strategy, which aims to nurture an engaged, people-centred, and socially responsive university community. Through ENVISION 2030, DUT continues to inspire collective action towards creating a fairer and safer society, where every individual’s rights are recognised and protected.
The walk was made possible through the support of various partners and sponsors, including Round Table, National Prosecuting Authority, Hilton Garden Inn, Manuchar, and DUT Gender Forum, among others. Their collaboration underscored the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in addressing complex social challenges such as human trafficking.
With each step taken along Durban’s scenic beachfront, the DUT community demonstrated that collective action truly has the power to make a difference.
The 5km Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Walk served not only as a symbolic gesture but also as a call to action, reminding everyone that the fight against human trafficking requires continuous advocacy, education, and compassion. Together, the DUT community and its partners are walking towards a future rooted in freedom, justice, and hope one step at a time.
Pictured: DUT participants at the Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Walk.
Sinamile Sithole
