Women abuse in the spotlight in Alex
ALEXANDRA – MEC marks UN's anti-women abuse at Bombani shelter.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nandi Mayathula-Khoza, led a commemoration of the United Nation’s campaign to raise awareness about violence against women and girls called, Unite, at the Bombani Shelter for survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Alex.
Dubbed Orange Day, the campaign raises awareness about gender-based violence which the global body has declared a scourge and a violation of women’s rights which must be eradicated. Mayathula-Khoza said the campaign, commemorated on the 25th of every month, is to increase awareness in society and change the behaviour, in particular of males, against domestic and other abuse on women and girls.
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“This, at a time when the nation is shocked by numerous reports of abuse and femicide,” she said.
“We must make the 25th of each month bright and optimistic, like the colour orange, which represents a future free from violence against women and girls. The Orange Day calls on activists, governments, and communities to mobilise people and highlight the relevant issues of preventing and ending violence against women and girls.
“This, in addition to commemorating 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and make the awareness a living reality every day.”
Mayathula-Khoza added that the abuse has also prompted the provincial government to plan a massive interdepartmental campaign with other stakeholders. “Meanwhile, ward councillors should also discuss and seek sustainable solutions in committee meetings and seek social workers’ help to reintegrate the survivors into their families and society.”
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She commended the centres for providing the survivors with therapeutic support to enhance their self-esteem, life skills like sewing, baking and gardening to support their self-sufficiency. Also, she praised the staff, social workers, volunteers and students who also, drew in support of NPOs like Adapt and Sanca and the police, to make their services more holistic.
Details: Mbangwa Xaba 072 447 6582.
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