Employees of the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court recently hosted an awareness campaign at the Mohlakeng Recreation Centre as part of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.
It was also an opportunity for NGOs and state departments, including the police and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to make their presentations. Community-based groups such as the Ebuhleni Home Based Care Centre from Mohlakeng Extension 4 and the Mpharanyana Cultural Group from Randgate, Randfontein were given toiletries and sanitary towels.
“Do not stay in an abusive relationship as it can lead to children abusing drugs,” said Annah Chivava from Are Ageng Social Social Services.
Constable Mabala from the Randfontein Police Social Crime Prevention Desk then raised concerns about men who are victims of abuse and do not report it. She added it is important that the community works hand in hand with the police.
“Financial abuse is also a cause of concern. Women do not report abusive spouses because their spouse is the breadwinner. Let the campaign not be 16 days but 365 days”.
Enrico Bhana from Women Against Women Abuse (Wawa) said victims of abuse can come for shelter at the Toekomsrus and Mohlakeng Police Stations.
“We are not only a place of safety, but place of hope.”
Helen Matsemela, Court Preparation Officer explained that it’s a challenge to get testimonies from children as a court is intimidating. That is why the children were invited to tour the courts, so they could familiarise themselves with court procedures and various role players on the day.
“Hopefully now, the children will testify freely,” she said.
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