A culture of violence has engulfed Alexandra, limiting prospects for development, peace and harmony among residents.
This was the dominant theme of the Department of Arts and Culture and other agencies at a film festival commemorating 16 Days of Activism Against Violence to Women and Children.
The event, held at the Olivetree Theatre, Wynberg was facilitated by the department in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund, Kidz Clinic, the police and other local agencies.
Matsie Ratsaka-Mothokoa, the department’s director of arts and social development said Alex was an appropriate venue for the occasion due to its high incidents of crime and violence. This she said was the result of a lack of social cohesion and the absence of common interest in nation building among residents.
“The area lacks the spirit of ubuntu because it’s a free for all where everyone does as they please,” she said.
Born and bred in the area Mothokoa said violence in Alex was a dominant feature of daily life and was a far cry from the township of the ’60s and early ’70s when property owners kept their homes and streets clean, knew and protected each other, and children went to late night shows at a local cinema with no fear of being mugged, raped or killed.
She said the mushrooming of shacks brought in undesirable elements that changed residents’ behaviour and attitudes from that of caring to crime, which limited free movement and sharing.
“The level of violence creates fear among those going to work early in the morning, especially women as they are mugged, raped and sometimes killed. Alex should be helped to be violence-free, especially for women and children who are most vulnerable.”
Mathokoa urged residents to desist from violence and should use the theatre for this purpose. “It is a platform for self expression through dialogue without resorting to violence and enables people to discuss strategies for co-existence. Also, it keeps children entertained and they can explore their talents while staying off the streets.”
Details: Dept of Arts and Culture; 012 441 3048
