The South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) has strongly condemned the stigma surrounding mental illness that has led to the tragic death of Jostina Sangweni who had been diagnosed with Schizophrenia.
Sangweni was allegedly beaten and set alight on March 26 at Mapetla after being accused of being a witch.
Sadly, after being taken to a hospital for care, she passed away on April 5 and was laid to her final resting place this past weekend at Slovoville.
Her final send-off ceremony was held at Naledi Community Hall where rituals were performed by traditional healers as a form of bidding farewell to one of their own her spirit transcends to its resting place.
[also read] – Traditional healers take a stand against the killing of mentally ill women
“Sangweni’s incident shows the lack of awareness surrounding mental illness and how dangerous, and even fatal the lack of awareness can be. SAFMH wishes to extend its condolences to Jostina’s loved ones who are mourning her passing. We trust that justice will be served and that the people responsible for her murder will be held accountable by the South African judicial system,” said Nadine Dirks from SAFMH.
“SAFMH condemns all crimes and abuse of women and those who are mentally ill, both women and men. We urge the public to condemn inhumane actions and to involve authorities instead of resorting to ‘mob justice.’ Further, we urge the public to reach out to organisations like SAFMH for assistance in referrals and information surrounding mental health. We urge the public to reach out before resorting to violence towards those who are mentally ill. SAFMH calls on the government to take urgent action in this regard and to immediately increase its mental health response,” added Dirk.
To be more enlightened about SAFMH organisation, one can contact : Nadine Dirks by email: nadine@SAFMH.org or by calling:079 799 6533
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