Abuse against women affects kids: premier

Premier Stanley Chupu Mathabatha has warned that abuse against women is also felt by children.
Mathabatha spoke at the virtual launch of the 16 Days of Activism on No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which takes place annually between 25 November and 10 December.
This year’s theme is Women’s Economic Justice for a non-violent and non-sexist South Africa.
Mathabatha says it is equaly undisputable that the abuse directed at children is also felt by women as mothers.
“As government, our intention is to rid society of any abuse against women and children. Real men don’t abuse. Real men care and protect”.
Mathabatha has called every sector of society to fight abuse against women and children and not look away when abuse takes place.
He says that is tantamount to being an accomplice to keep quiet.
“Real men will never raise a hand against a woman or a child and those who do so are not worthy to be called men. The message against the abuse of women and children is a year-round message. No one should be made to think that we are only vigilant during this period of 16 Days of Activism on No Violence Against Women and Children”.
The Department of Social Development in partnership with other stakeholders is running campaigns in all districts of the province.
The campaigns range from door-to-door visits, radio talks, community engagements, men and boy dialogues, community dialogues to sporting events.
The MEC Nkakareng Ragoale says through its 74 funded organisations and social workers in local areas, the campaigns will continue throughout the year to make communities aware and prevent abuse while letting victims know what services are available to them.
Nkakareng says the emphasis on this year’s theme is the economic empowerment of women for their non-dependence from male partners.
“The aim is for them to be independent and be able to move out of abusive relationships.”