SECUNDA – The DA called on all South Africans to blow the whistle against abuse of women and children.
16 Days of Activism Against Abuse of Women and Children began on Tuesday, 25 November and the DA Women’s Network (Dawn) in Mpumlanga embarked on their own Blow the Whistle Against Abuse Campaign by visiting local police stations to look at the stations’ facilities available for victims of rape and abuse.
The international theme this year for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence Campaign is From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World.
Local DA members and the DA Mpumalanga’s provincial Dawn spokesman and Member of Parliament, Ms Tarnia Baker, visited Bethal and Secunda Police Stations to raise awareness for the 16 Days of Activism Against Abuse of Women and Children Campaign.
They looked at the Curamus Victim Support Centre at Secunda Police Station and Const Mutavhatsindi Nakie shared some ideas with Ms Baker about what action can be taken in order to make a difference in this fight against abuse.
“One of the points that was highlighted, was the need for greater education and communication with our communities at grass roots level,” said Ms Ena van Rooyen, DA councillor.
Ms Daleen Bezuidenhout from the Curamis Victim Support Centre explained the role they play in the support of victims who come to the police station.
“This is truly an essential service which is being provided by people who are mostly volunteers,” said Ms Baker.
“They do what they do purely as a service to the community and are not being paid or reimbursed in any way.
“For this we must commend them.”
“To be able to replicate this service at all police stations and getting the same level of community involvement all over Govan Mbeki, is something we should strive to accomplish,” said Ms Baker.
“If you think you have what it takes or can contribute to this fight against abuse in any way, please join hands with us,” said Ms Van Rooyen.
For more information, contact her at 082 461 3273.
