GBV continues to be a major obstacle in Reiger Park
The most common trends are women and children abuse, which is primarily caused by unemployment and drug abuse in Reiger Park.
As the country commemorates Women’s Month, the Reiger Park Community Crisis Centre said it is less than halfway to resolving the problem of GBV in their community.
Crisis centre caregiver Louise McKlopper said GBV cases are, unfortunately, common in Reiger Park.
“There have been numerous reported cases, but because there are issues with the justice system, these take a long time to resolve. Victims end up withdrawing their charges because of the legal system.
“The most common abuse is against women and children, primarily caused by unemployment and drug abuse. Men are also victims of violence, but it mostly affects women and children. The youngest child reported to us was a four-year-old.
“In my five years of working with GBV cases, the year with the most reported cases was 2020,” said McKlopper, who is herself a survivor of abuse.
“I was abused for 20 years in my 24-year marriage. It was a nightmare.
“I believe I took my time getting out of the marriage because I was dependent on my husband and also because I was concerned about the children. But I eventually got out and I am proud of myself for doing that,” she said.
McKlopper pointed out that aside from violence, the community needs assistance raising awareness and educating people about this issue, as Reiger Park is a definite hot spot for abuse.
“All stakeholders must intervene to address our social problems and social illnesses. Parents should also play a role in teaching their children about these issues, particularly about sex and respect,” she said.
GBV awareness.
To combat the scourge of GBV, the Thusang Community Development, in collaboration with Ekupoleni Health and Reiger Park SAPS, held a motorcade GBV awareness campaign last month.
Ward 34 Clr Edith Klassen, members of the CPF, officers from the Gauteng traffic police, representatives from the Department of Social Development and members of the Reiger Park Community Forum attended the campaign, which was held in four high-traffic areas.
Pamphlets were handed out to educate the residents.
Also Read: Gender-based violence cases rising
