The Fort Hare Foundation has successfully raised a gross amount of R840,222 to support initiatives aimed at combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) within the University of Fort Hare. The funds were generated during the Annual Chancellor’s Fundraising Golf Day and Gala Dinner, hosted at the East London Golf Club on 29 August 2025.

The two-part event brought together golfers, corporates, alumni, and friends of the University of Fort Hare in a show of solidarity against GBV. The Golf Day saw 104 golfers competing in a four-ball alliance format that featured branding and engaging hole activations.

Later in the evening, the Gala Dinner welcomed industry leaders and partners, with Ms Nolitha Fakude, Chairperson of Anglo American and proud UFH alumna, delivering the keynote address. The programme was co-hosted by fellow alumni Ms Nomso Kana and Professor Philani Nongogo, who kept the evening engaging and inspiring. The dinner also included an exclusive auction, with a highlight being contemporary African ceramic artwork valued at R100,000, generously donated by Imiso Ceramics, run by renowned artists Andile Dyalvane and Zizipho Poswa.

The event was supported by several sponsors. Platinum sponsors included Standard Bank, Adapt IT, BTKM, Bayport, and Imiso Ceramics. Other valued sponsors were Fundi, The Unlimited, Instatoll, FNB, Royal Buffalo Hospital, Sanlam, Lily Lulo Events, and Xerox. Internally, the Directorate of Marketing and Communication and the ICT Department also played a key role in ensuring the success of the event.

Speaking after the announcement of the fundraising total, Mr Vuyani Hako, Director of the Fort Hare Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“We deeply appreciate the generosity of our sponsors, alumni, and staff. Their contributions reaffirm our shared commitment to creating a safe, inclusive campus and tackling the scourge of GBV.”

The resounding success of the Golf Day and Gala Dinner demonstrates the power of partnerships and community spirit in making meaningful change at the University of Fort Hare. The Fort Hare Foundation looks forward to your continued support next year. This annual event, held every August, remains a cornerstone in rallying resources to make a lasting impact.