Management of the West Rand District Health Service (WRDHS) held an awareness campaign against gender-based violence under the 16 Days of Activism banner on Wednesday December 1 at the Holomisa Sports Grounds in Bekkersdal.
According to Zoliswa Nzeku, spokesperson of WRDHS, the aim of the programme was to highlight the negative effect of violence upon women and children at grassroots level.
We used the platform to educate the community of Bekkersdal about the link between HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence. Speakers educated the community on the importance of reporting abuse to authorities within 72 hours,” Nzeku said.
Speakers outlined the platforms where such cases could be reported, and reiterated the importance of keeping evidence on victims of sexual assault.
“Sister Nomhle Phato, an enrolled nurse at Bekkersdal Clinical Forensic Medical Services, discussed the types of sexual assault, and also provided detailed information about the link between HIV/AIDS and domestic violence.”
Meanwhile Sister Refilwe Thobela, the Unit Manager of the District Clinical Forensic Medical Services, committed to the CFMS Unit upskilling health workers and community care workers on identifying cases of GBV in communities.
Thobela also said there will be improved collaborations with ward councillors and community-based organisations to assist and identify GBV cases in the community, and refer them to the correct structures,” Nzeku said.
