Makhado police launch 16 Days of Activism
said community members are suffering even though there are facilities that can assist them when they have problems.
LIMPOPO – The Makhado police with the support of other departments and the community launched the 16 Days of Activism campaign for No Violence against Women and Children at Tshikota hall on November 27.
The South African government runs the 16 Days of Activism campaign to create public awareness around the negative impact of violence on women and children, and encourages collective action against all types of abuse and its prevention in the communities.
Lt Col Hlengani Ndlovu of the Makhado police said they support the campaign that seeks to combat gender-based violence.
“Over the years, we have had to contend with the fact that incidents of abuse continue to occur, despite the existence of a progressive constitutional and legislative framework that protects women while promoting a human rights culture,” he said.
He added that the community and local police stations are active partners in ensuring local safety and security.
“We’ve been hosting this project successfully for some years,” Ndlovu said. “We would like to thank all our sponsors because they are the people who make this event possible each year. It is high time that men start treating women and children with dignity and respect.”
He appealed to men to treat women and children with dignity and respect, saying men should stop the belief that they are entitled to abuse others “because they are the man of the house”.
Musiswa Nefale from Social Development called upon the community to report instances of abuse.
He said community members are suffering even though there are facilities that can assist them when they have problems. He also urged communities to partner with government departments and to assist vulnerable children.
Nefale said the days where women used to keep quiet while they were being abused, were over. “Men intentionally beat their spouses and apologised the next day. Let us not keep quiet when you are being abused. You can contact social workers who are available to assist in this regard.”
