Mduduzi Ndlovu, who was found guilty of rape and sentenced to 18 years in prison, said, “While I was in custody I realised I did not only rape the victim, I also affected and damaged her future,” he said.
“Today there are women who do not trust men anymore because of people like me. I had to learn this the hard way, to understand that no means no. When I was 25 years old I was found guilty of rape, I was sentenced to prison for 18 years and released after serving for ten years. I was released from prison when I was 35 years old. I am here and willing to go to different areas and warn others about how wrong it is to sexually abuse women, and to also make them understand what happens when you get to prison if you abuse women and kids,“ he said.
Ndlovu is originally from KaNyamazane.
“When correctional services said there will be an event in KaBokweni to raise awareness for gender-based violence I raised my hand and asked if I could please be there too, so that I can share my story with those who are still thinking of doing what I did. This is because most offenders do not realise the damage their actions cause to the victims. The incidents affect the victims for life. Worse, the scars remain with them and they struggle,“ he explained.
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“I believe almost all of us have once been a victim of GBV, whether directly or indirectly. We know people who were victims of GBV. I am standing to say no, not in my name. I am pleading with all of you to not let the tendency continue because it is a very bad one. I am grateful to God that he has given me a second chance and an opportunity to educate others who are considering doing what I did,” he said.
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He was talking during the provincial launch of 16 Days of Activism.
