Rape awareness campaign to empower girl learners

Over 100 whistles and menstrual cups were donated to girl learners of Isiqalo Primary School during a Rape Awareness Campaign held at the school on Wednesday, 21 October.

The campaign was spearheaded by the Bekkersdal Police who partnered with International Facility Services (IFS) and MoveAfrica.

Colleen Chang, Operations Manager of IFS South Africa said the project was started last year.

“We engaged with the learners on rape whistles and how important they are is, also how they could utilise the menstrual cups,” Chang said.

She added that two schools in the rural areas have been chosen to be part of their CSI project. The campaign is an effort to uplift learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Chang went on to say another reason for their outreach was that women were subjected to severe domestic violence, which included rape.

Themba Gwebu, also an IFS representative, said through their partnership with Sibanye Stillwater they have managed to assist over 2 000 learners in Rand West City schools.

Lesego Mokone, a representative of MoveAfrica said their organisation identified the best menstrual cups on the market to provide the IFS with.

“We educate girls about the use of these products because in most parts of Africa these products are relatively new and not many know about them,” Mokone said.

Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, Bekkersdal Police spokesperson said the police are part of the campaign as numerous rape cases have been reported in the area – especially within the informal settlements.

“We as the police are part of this, and we urge learners to report rape. Rape is a crime that usually is committed behind closed doors and then sometimes goes unreported. We also want learners to use whistles to expose kidnappers, human traffickers and even bullies,” Lefakane said.

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