Fikile Farrow who has recently been appointed as the ambassador against gender-based violence for the West Rand region said she takes this titles seriously.

Fikile, who is also a survivor of sexual abuse, said with her new song titled Sulizinyembezi (Wipe your tears), she wants to help victims heal. She added that we can no longer shy away from the pandemic that’s destroying lives.

“Any form of abuse is a reality that affects us all; therefore, no person can say they are exempt from its consequences. It affects us all in some way,” Fikile said.

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Having once been a victim of sexual abuse at the hands of someone she knew well, she said she wanted to share with others her childhood ordeal in the song.

Abuse is a very complex matter, there are people who deal with it every day. Some unfortunately are not speaking out. But I believe that in order to overcome it, we need to change the mindset of people. Children must be raised with the knowledge that abuse is wrong and unacceptable.

“In the song, survivors of abuse are offered comfort and empowerment; I give them a virtual shoulder to cry on, to let out all the pain they’ve endured for a long time,” Fikile said.

Fikile also thanked her late mother, Nompumelelo Sondela who has encouraged her to compose the song and speak out about her experience.

“As members of modern society, we cannot turn a blind eye to abuse against our women and innocent children. This is a serious pandemic that should be rooted out in society,” Fikile added.