VRYBURG – A powerful message of faith, unity and community responsibility echoed through the  Huhudi Community Police Forum Prayer Day held on Thursday, 26 March 2026, at the Huhudi Gymnasium, where community members, government departments, faith leaders and stakeholders gathered to pray against crime and social ills.

The event, organised in partnership with the CPF and various stakeholders, brought together a wide cross-section of society to reflect on the role of spirituality in addressing challenges such as crime, substance abuse, gender-based violence and family breakdown.

A Call for Social Cohesion and Purpose

Delivering a message of support, Gopolang Valtyn from the Department of Arts, Culture, Recreation and Sport emphasised the importance of social cohesion and nation building, reminding attendees that “our primary purpose on earth should be to help others.”

This message set the tone for a day centred on unity, compassion and collective responsibility.

Addressing Youth Challenges and Education

Ms Lesedi Moalosi from the District Department of Education highlighted key challenges facing young people, including peer pressure and the influence of social media. She encouraged learners to take advantage of extra lessons and the department’s second chance matric programme.

Moalosi also raised concern about the need to focus on the boy child, while urging communities to teach non-violence, quoting the Setswana proverb: “Ntwakgolo ke ya molomu” (conflict should be resolved through dialogue).

Family, Justice and Health Awareness

From a legal perspective, Motlalepula Tsoisane of the Department of Justice outlined the importance of guardianship, parental plans, and the role of family courts, particularly in matters of divorce and domestic violence.

Health concerns were also brought to the fore by Khumoetsile Siti from the Naledi Sub-District Department of Health, who warned that crime and social challenges directly affect community health. She highlighted issues such as late pregnancy clinic visits, malnutrition, and the dangers of smoking, urging families to engage openly on health matters and to support community health workers.

Powerful Testimony on Drug Recovery

One of the most impactful moments of the day came from the Local Drug Action Committee, represented by Ms Karabo Taue, under the leadership of Naledi Local Municipality Mayor Cllr CJ Groep.

Recovering drug addict Neo Matseoane shared a heartfelt testimony of his journey, describing how drug use began as experimentation but eventually led to hardship. He emphasised that recovery is a personal decision, supported by family and community. Today, he stands as a transformed individual, a present father, and an ambitious professional.

Leadership, Parenting and Community Responsibility

Member of Parliament Betty Kegakilwe called on parents to take greater responsibility in raising children, encouraging them to support teachers rather than undermine them, and to bring their children to church.

She further emphasised the importance of prayer in strengthening families and communities.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

Chairperson of the Huhudi CPF, Mr Moletsane Nchochoba, expressed gratitude for the strong partnership between the CPF and SAPS, describing the event as “a day that will go down in history.” He also acknowledged the role of stakeholders, including Amogelang Insurance Brokers, for their continued contribution to community development.

The Power of Prayer

Spiritual leaders reinforced the central role of prayer in combating social challenges. Bishop Dr. G. Malebe, referencing 2 Chronicles 7:14, called on the community to return to God and embrace spiritual crime prevention.

Similarly, the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District CPF Chairperson highlighted the power of prayer through Acts 16:25, encouraging faith as a tool for transformation.

“Let There Be Light”

Delivering the sermon of the day, Bishop OJ Tsatsi drew from scriptures including Genesis 1:3, John 1:29, James 1:19 and Hebrews 10:24, under the theme “Let There Be Light.”

The message called on the community to be a source of light in times of darkness, promoting love, accountability and positive action.

The Huhudi Prayer Day concluded with a renewed sense of hope and commitment, as community members pledged to work together—through faith, partnership and action—to build safer and healthier communities. 

-The VIP Team 

-Huhudi CPF