GBV awareness seminar calls on boys to be real men
Various organisations and stakeholders hosted a GBV seminar in Kagiso as part of the Women's Month commemorations.
It’s still Women’s Month and many organisations throughout town are doing their best to bring awareness and educate the public about gender-based violence (GBV) and more.
During a GBV seminar held at the Gauteng Provincial Archives Centre in Kagiso on August 17, the government supported the value and contribution of many stakeholders, including the West Rand Department of Social Development, Mogale City, Shesha and Majita Mental Health.
The Department of Social Development also has a Victim Empowerment Programme that focuses on transforming people’s attitudes, practices and behaviour change.
“The programme is inter-sectoral and inter-departmental based on strong partnerships with government, civil society organisations, volunteers, business, academics and research institutions,” said host and organiser Mashudu Neluheni.
Mashudu added the programme focuses on a victim-centred approach to crime and strives towards developing knowledge of victim issues, strengthening resources, addressing the needs of the victims, and stimulating volunteer participation and prevention of secondary victimisation.
Other community organisations such as the Kagiso CPF and law enforcement agencies such as the Social Crime Prevention Unit and Mogale City Public Safety play a big role.
“The purpose of our seminar was to open a dialogue for the community to not only understand the effects of GBV but to also hold them accountable. GBV is not always one-sided where the woman is a victim, and solutions to this issue aren’t always a matter of justice. We hope to encourage men and boys to be better and advocate for women and girls to be wiser. Abuse isn’t always physical so we hope to teach people to be more proactive and see the signs so they can take action when GBV occurs.”
