Cape Town runner takes on 24-hour run agsinst GBV

Cape Town resident Naiema Abrahams is embarking on a challenging 24-hour run to raise awareness against gender-based violence (GBV) and to counter the fear women face while jogging alone. The run will commence at 7pm on Friday, September 25, continuing until 7pm on Saturday, September 26, 2026, despite the darkness. Living in Lynfrae, Abrahams is a member of Bo-Kaap Athletics Club and was motivated to take on this challenge after hearing about the tragic death of Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo, a Johannesburg runner who was discovered dead after going for a run in Kempton Park earlier this month.

Nine women have tragically lost their lives to GBV in the Ekurhuleni and surrounding areas over the past two months, according to IOL news. To create awareness and show solidarity against GBV, Abrahams decided to undertake this daunting task, stating, "I want to do something to create awareness, to say that we should be able to run any time of day or night, whenever and wherever we want, instead of always running for our lives."

Choosing Rondebosch Common as the venue was strategic since it is in proximity to her home. Runners will traverse loops around the common, with Abrahams taking regular hydration breaks. Companies from Claremont and the Revive counselling group will also join the event. The run is free and open to anyone who wishes to stand against GBV, as Abrahams invites everyone - men, women, children, and even animals - to participate and show their support. For more information, Abrahams' Instagram page, @runitstylish, can be visited.