Boland Rugby, Sanlam Foundation and the Drakenstein Municipality join hands against GBV

The Boland Rugby Union, in partnership with the Sanlam Foundation and the Drakenstein Municipality, led a powerful community-centred initiative aligned with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign.

The initiative was officially showcased ahead of the 2025 Sanlam Boland Top 12 Final on 22 November, demonstrating a united regional stance against one of South Africa’s most urgent social challenges.

Representatives from the Department of Social Development, the Thuthuzela Care Centre and the AHOS Shelter for Abused Women and Children were present on match day to engage supporters with vital information, resources, and pathways to assistance. Players and officials from the participating clubs also took a public Pledge Against GBV as a symbolic commitment to respect, accountability and community protection.

Bennie van Rooi, President of the Boland Rugby Union and its leadership echoed appreciation for the shared vision, noting that the partnership demonstrates how sport can serve as a bridge between awareness, action and long-term social change.

“What happened today showed the true power of the Boland community,” Van Rooi said. “Rugby brings people together but standing up against GBV unites us on a deeper level. Our union is committed to using our platform to educate, protect, and uplift. This is not just a campaign - it is a responsibility we carry 365 days a year.”

Ray-ann Sedres, Head of the Sanlam Foundation, emphasised the significance of the initiative and the collective effort behind it: “Gender-based violence leaves deep and lasting scars and it’s up to all of us to help restore dignity and provide comfort to survivors in their most vulnerable moments. As part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, we are calling on every individual to stand up, speak out and protect one another. This initiative is about more than symbolic gestures; it is about creating real pathways to change. By joining forces with key role players in the Boland region, we are amplifying the message that abuse has no place in our homes, our communities, or our country.

"It was especially meaningful to witness players and representatives publicly committing to the pledge against GBV during the half-time break, in a powerful show of solidarity.

“Respect is at the core of rugby and it must be at the core of how people treat one another,” Van Rooi concluded. “This initiative goes beyond just an awareness campaign; it is about supporting survivors, strengthening communities and working together to build a safer South Africa.”