In partnership with the Mandela Foundation and TruFM the theme was "Taking a Stand Against GBV, Substance Abuse and Poverty – Building Unity Through Action."
The initiative brought together the University, community members, government departments, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to create lasting impact through collective action.
The University participants included Agricultural Sciences, Dietetics students, Missionvale Psychology Clinic, Pharmacy, CIPSET, CANRAD, Finance and the Faculty of Law
The programme commenced started with an Inclusive Community Sports Day with Under-15 soccer and netball teams competing in a vibrant tournament that celebrated teamwork, inclusion and healthy lifestyles.
The event highlighted sport as a powerful tool for steering young people away from substance abuse, gender-based violence (GBV) and other social challenges, and promoted social cohesion and positive youth development.
The second day focused on Household Farming as community members worked along the University participants to establish sustainable vegetable gardens at identified households in Zwide.
This initiative aimed to strengthen food security, reduce poverty and empower families to become self-sufficient through household food production. In the long term, these gardens have the potential to generate income through selling fresh produce, while also supporting neighbours in need and contributing to a more resilient community.
On Community Wellness and Empowerment Day, the residents accessed a range of free support services provided by various government departments, University partners and community organisations.These included legal, health and social support services, as well as information on mental health and gender-based violence.
Volunteers also participated in a clean-up campaign at Zamukukhanya Primary School, reinforcing the University's commitment to creating safe, healthy and dignified learning environments, as well as strengthening community wellbeing.
The week concluded with a 3 km Community March for Wellness, Safety and Freedom from Substance Abuse and Gender-Based Violence, uniting residents, students, staff and stakeholders in a visible stand against GBV and substance abuse.
Following the march, TruFM facilitated a community dialogue where representatives from government, civil society, faith-based organisations, the University and community leaders engaged in discussions on the root causes of gender-based violence and substance abuse.
Together, participants explored practical solutions and reaffirmed a shared commitment to building safer, healthier and more resilient communities through ongoing collaboration and collective responsibility.
Mandela Week 2026 demonstrated the power of sustained partnerships and community engagement, showing that when institutions and communities unite with a common purpose, meaningful and lasting social change becomes possible.
