CAPE TOWN-Fed up with gang violence plaguing the Cape Flats, over 70 residents took to the streets of Muizenberg on Saturday 4 October, in a powerful prayer walk calling for peace.
Residents from Vrygrond, Seawinds, and Overcome Heights took to the streets with placards, echoing a powerful message of empathy and a call to end senseless violence. The peaceful walk, organised by Ward 45 councillor Mandy Marr, aimed to unite communities and raise awareness about the devastating impact of gang activity. In August this year, eight people were shot dead, prompting calls for more police visibility (“Eight murders in a week”, People’s Post 26 August).
In light of this, Western Cape police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile visited the Muizenberg and Steenberg policing precincts on Tuesday August 19.
Over 70 residents gathered for a prayer walk in Muizenberg and celebrated the power of peace amidst the alarming state of shootings plaguing the Cape Flats. Photos: Supplied 
A young girl with her placard to promote peace in the community. 
Young and old joined hands for a walkabout in Vrygrond, Seawinds, and Overcome Heights. 
Many civic, faith-based, and governmental organisations — including the police, City law enforcement, and community groups assisted on the day. 
The participants also debuted and sang their very own Ward 45 anthem, “The Ground We Stand On”, to commemorate the peace walk and lives lost to gang violence. 
The peace and prayer walk took place in Vrygrond, Seawinds, and Overcome Heights that have been plagued by shootings. Photos: supplied
In August Marr also held a memorial service at the Overcome Heights Community Centre to honour the lives of the victims who lost their lives.
Marr said the walk was a tribute to the community’s spirit.
“Even amidst grave gang violence, our resolve will not break. We began with a strong presence, and as we moved through Vrygrond and into Overcome Heights, more residents joined, turning the event into a truly powerful and motivating show of unity.”
The participants also launched their own Ward 45 anthem, “The Ground We Stand On”, to commemorate the peace walk and ensure the residents are reminded about the scourge of gang violence.
“We aim to keep this spirit alive. This is not a lighthearted subject; we face a relentless threat. But we will not allow our spirit to be broken.
“We will keep rising until our government prioritises and delivers the effective policing and safety that our people desperately need,” she said.
Marr also thanked everyone including civic, faith-based, and governmental organisations and the police, City law enforcement, and community safety groups who helped ensure a safe and successful event.
