Awareness campaign held in Daveyton, Etwatwa areas
The event was held under the theme “End violence against women, children, lesbians and gays”.
The convener of the ANC Women’s Caucus in Ekurhuleni, Clr Nozipho Mabuza, recently led an awareness campaign and prayer meeting on the abuse of women, children and homosexuals in Oscar Mabika Zone (Daveyton/Etwatwa).
The purpose of the event was to raise awareness, during Women’s Month, of any form of abuse and “to affirm the dignity, humanity, protection and justice for all in our region and in the entire country”.
Member of the ANC executive committee Clr Conny Mashego read a memorandum to the police before it was handed over to them at Sinaba Stadium.
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“We demand that the police be hands-on in apprehending offenders of rape, murder and drug dealers,” said Mashego.
“In addition, to ensure that police take action on information supplied by communities on perpetrators of violence and drug dealers.
“Police must act swiftly on cases involving rape, abuse and the murder of children and women.
“We urge the police to put in more effort to end the murder of children, women, lesbians and gays.”
Clr Mashigo further appealed to the police to be visible and not to turn a blind eye to abused women being raped and used as drug traffickers.
Member of Parliament Thelisa Mgweba said she was encouraged by the level of activism displayed by the community of Ekurhuleni in raising awareness of women and child abuse.
“Raising awareness of gender-based violence should not be done during Women’s Month only but should be a matter that is dealt with 365 days a year,” she said.
“We want to ensure that the victims are also equally protected at our local police stations as many communities think that they are more vulnerable and exposed to double victimisation by the officers.”
Daveyton SAPS Capt Tholakele Msimango received the memorandum.
“We hear your demands and equally appeal to the community to work with us in dealing with these challenges,” she said.
The day ended with a prayer meeting at Mokoka Library.
