March against woman and child abuse in eSikhaleni

A CHILD goes missing or is abducted every five hours in South Africa, while on average, one in five women experiences physical violence.

These shocking statistics motivated the Women and Children Abuse Awareness campaign at uMkhobose in eSikhaleni on Saturday morning.

With abduction and rape incidents, include killings of women, now reported closer to home, the movement was aimed to send a clear message – women and child abuse will not be tolerated.

Headed by Ubhojwana Arts and Culture, the day started with a peaceful march from the uMkhobose open area.

Focused more on children, the awareness campaign was an eye-opener for many locals who received valuable information from various sectors.

‘It’s not only about these incidents, but we also want to teach the youth about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse which are contributing factors to violence in our communities,’ said Ubhojwana Chairperson Ben Thusi.

Other speakers included representatives of the Community Policing Forum, who used the platform to educate youngsters about the dangers of criminal activities and the consequences.

Representatives of various higher education institutions and the uMhlathuze Youth Desk were also part of the initiative.

ALSO READ: Men’s march in eSikhaleni condemns women and children abuse

Facts on women and child abuse

• On average, one in five South African women older than 18 has experienced physical violence, but the picture of gender-based attacks varies according to marital status and wealth

• According to Stats SA, four in 10 divorced or separated women reported physical violence, as has one in three women in poor households

• It’s a complex picture that emerges in Statistics SA’s 2016 Demographic and Health Survey released on Monday. It not only challenges societal attitudes of patriarchy and chauvinism, but also the effectiveness of government programmes and interventions

• More than 50% of all abused children in South Africa know the perpetrator

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