16 kilometres for non-violence

Social activists walked 16 kilometres to show solidarity in the international fight to end violence against women and children last Friday
The walk, which was organised by the Netcare Alberlito Hospital, started from Shakaskraal Clinic and ended in the KwaDukuza CBD.
Alberlito’s infection prevention practitioner, Reena Govender said they were continuing from last year’s walk which was themed ‘keep the flame alive against violence’.
“Our goal is to see violence against women and children completely eradicated and each kilometre we walk represents a day in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign,” said Govender.
The walkers were joined by the KwaDukuza traffic department, Lancet Laboratories, Netcare 911, KwaDukuza SAPS, Ndwedwe SAPS, Umhlali SAPS and the KwaDukuza municipality team led by mayor Ricardo Mthembu.
Ndwedwe SAPS’s Vukani Msipho said it was important for men to remember their role as protectors not abusers.
“I encourage all my brothers, fathers and sons to think before they act. Being angry is not an excuse to abuse your loved ones,” said Msipho.
The activists observed a moment of silence in honour of President Nelson Mandela who had passed away a few hours earlier.
This year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign ran from November 25 to December 10.