To commemorate the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the Community Work Programme (CWP) Men’s Forum members signed an anti-abuse pledge at the Munsieville Stadium.
The men, who are against the abuse of women and children, gathered in an effort to put a stop to gender-based violence.
CWP ambassador for the Men’s Forum, John Moeketsi, was the first one to sign the pledge, he then warned the men in a queue to sign that they are committing to never participating in any acts of abuse.
“Gentlemen, when you sign here you are making a covenant with God that you will never abuse a woman or a child – abuse won’t happen in my name,” said Moeketsi.
Various founders of non-profit organisations (NPOs), members of Social Development, Krugersdorp police officers, members of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), women and community members at large also joined in the activities of the day, which entailed choir performances, dancing, distribution of craft work made by CWP members and a soccer match. The guest speakers of the day all took turns to enlighten women and other community members about the numerous organisations that are accessible to them when they or anyone they know falls victim to abuse.
Another focus was on children. Many children are neglected during the holidays and often go hungry during the day as they do not get food from their schools’ feeding scheme.
Pinkie Mogole, a CWP Site Manager said as CWP they normally keep children busy during holidays by engaging them in lifestyle activities, such as teaching them indigenous games.
“While the children are on holiday, they are taught poetry, music, agriculture, soccer and netball. We also read biblical stories to them and encourage them to communicate effectively, and teach them to take care of themselves and be responsible for their lives,” said Pinkie.
She said that this year, 350 children participated in the event, which is held at the Renewal Ministries Fellowship Church, at no cost at all. Their biggest challenge is that they do not have food to cater for all the children. The programme is actually for primary school children, but this year Pinkie said they had high school learners who joined the event, who have been participating since 2014.
Some of the organisations who raised awareness on the services they offer included the Legae la Bana Organisation,Project Hope Health Organisation and LifeLine, whose mission is to support sustainable social change and emotional wellness ownership in and for communities. If you need help, you can call their 24-hour Crisis line on 0861 322 322 or 011 665 2281, during office hours. Lifeline offers a Building Community Heart Programme, a Personal Growth and Counselling Skills Course, as well as a Self Awareness and Communication Skills Course for young people.
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