Statement by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality on the Sentencing of Moses Gqesha

 The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality welcomes the sentence of life imprisonment handed down to Moses Gqesha, who was recently found guilty of the rape of Ms. Andy Kawa, an incident that occurred 15 years ago. This ruling comes at a time when our country continues to grapple with an alarming rise in rape and gender-based violence, which President Cyril Ramaphosa has aptly described as a "pandemic."

"Justice delayed should never mean justice denied. The sentencing of Moses Gqesha brings long-overdue accountability for a crime that has haunted Ms. Andy Kawa and shaken our collective conscience. As a city, we reaffirm our zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence and remain resolute in building a society where women and children are safe, heard, and protected.” Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay

While it is deeply concerning that it took more than a decade for an arrest to be made—only taking place in January last year—we are nonetheless satisfied that justice has finally been served. The wheels of justice have turned, albeit slowly, in favour of the victim of this heinous crime.

We hope this sentence sends a strong and unequivocal message: those who inflict violence and cruelty upon women and children will be held accountable. The long arm of the law will find them—and justice will prevail.

We also hope that this outcome encourages other survivors of similar trauma to come forward and report these crimes. It is only through collective courage and unwavering support for victims that we can bring all perpetrators to book and begin to heal as a society.

Led by the Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality on the 11th Development 2024 declared 365 days of non-violence against women and children abuse and an end the scourge of GBV and femicide.

Following this declaration, the Executive Mayor started the following programmes, Girl child dialogue, Mother and daughter intense conversation. Part of the implementation plan of these programmes include GBV awareness campaigns and school visits and talks. 

The Municipality wish Ms. Kawa strength and peace as she begins her journey toward healing, closure, and self-emancipation. As the Municipality, we remain firmly committed to standing with the vulnerable. We will continue working with all stakeholders to build a safer Nelson Mandela Bay for women, children, and all who are at risk.

Ends.