GBV and mental health take centre stage at Germiston Taxi Rank campaign
GBVF and mental health awareness campaign held at Germiston Taxi Rank.
As part of Transport Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, the Ekurhuleni Clinical Forensic Medical Services (Bertha Gxowa Care Centre) hosted a Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and Mental Health Awareness Campaign at the Germiston Taxi Rank.
The event was held in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Germiston SAPS, Department of Community Safety, Mental Health Social Workers, Ekupholeni, the Germiston SAPS Youth Desk, and the Public Communication Office (PCO).
During the campaign, information pamphlets were distributed, and community members were engaged on various issues related to GBVF, mental health, and chronic disease prevention.
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“Screening for chronic illnesses such as blood pressure and blood sugar testing was also conducted for taxi drivers and commuters,” said Sr Hazel Moagi from Bertha Gxowa Care Centre.
Those found with elevated blood pressure or high blood sugar levels were referred to their nearest clinics for further management and follow-up care.
“Taxi drivers were also urged to make time to visit their local clinics for regular health screenings and check-ups,” Moagi added.
The event also emphasised the importance of early intervention in cases of gender-based violence.
Community members were encouraged to report incidents as soon as possible to access psycho-social support and prevent the development of conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders.
