MOTS hosts compelling event against human trafficking
The Mall of the South gathers its partners to advocate against human trafficking.
Mall of the South brought together key partners, stakeholders, and government officials on September 8 for the #Holler event 2024.
The event was held to represent a united stand against human trafficking. The event supported the Home of Hope for Girls, an NPO that provides a haven for children and teenagers who have experienced abuse, particularly in cases related to child trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV).
Hosted Tandi Potgieter, the day served as a powerful call to action against this modern form of slavery, which affects thousands of South Africans annually.
Human trafficking is one of the most grievous human rights violations globally and South Africa is no exception, with many victims forced into labour, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse.
#Holler created a platform to engage the community, raise awareness and drive meaningful action against this widespread issue.
The event featured interesting contributions from law enforcement and civil society.
Sergeant Tumi Mnguni and Constable Constance Nala from Mondeor SAPS shared their perspectives on combating human trafficking from a policing angle.
“As the police, we focus on syndicates and kidnapping. There are kidnapping rings that operate around the province and country. We use those rings to find the larger operation of trafficking people and then close these operations down while using them to find missing persons,” Mnguni outlined.
Thembelihle Bhengu from Open Disclosure provided a gripping account of the psychological toll trafficking takes on victims.
“Victims go through a life or death situation and are subjected to torture in various forms to ensure compliance. The trauma is crippling; victims need help to deal with it through therapy and feeling safe,” said Bhengu.
Gift Ntshangase from Home of Hope for Girls highlighted the importance of supporting survivors and working to prevent further trafficking.
“Workshops and hope centres are for survivors to attend where they can get help to deal with their trauma. Tip-off and watch units that monitor areas where kidnapping takes place, especially in crowded areas and during the night, must be implemented around the country,” said Ntshangase.
Amanda Coetzee from Kuselo Child & Youth Care Services also emphasised the role of community involvement in safeguarding vulnerable children.
Human rights advocate and Miss Earth representative Catherine Constantinides moved attendees with her deep commitment to social justice in the fight against trafficking.
If you know someone affected by human trafficking or need support, visit www.hollersafespace.com
For donations, contact Home of Hope for Girls at info@hopehome.org.za or drop off items at the Mall of the South donation box at the lower-level Entrance 2.
