SAVF in Standerton holds awareness campaign about violence towards women and children
Const Masiteng’s address in English was translated into Zulu and further explained by Ms Helen Marima, also a social worker.
The SAVF in Standerton held a 16 days activism campaign about violence to women and children on Thursday, 26 November at 10am.
Ms Hanlie Brits, social worker, introduced the speaker from the Standerton Police, Const Thokozani Masiteng to the group of women.
The officer is from the Family Violence and Child Protection Unit.
Const Masiteng’s address in English was translated into Zulu and further explained by Ms Helen Marima, also a social worker.
In the address, he pointed out that children and the elderly are also considered to be vulnerable.
Const Masiteng took time to focus on rape that can also occur in a marriage, when no consent for sexual intercourse was given.
“Statutory rape is common in the community and applies to anyone below the age of 18, even where consent was given.” he said.
He added that young girls sometimes exchange sex for food or money, and these cases should be reported to the Department of Social Development and police.
“It is our job to protect them,” he also said.
In cases where a breadwinner violates a family member, the mother of the victim can be arrested in connection with her failure to report the abuse.
A question from the audience about what to do when girls sell their bodies in the streets, was answered with the commitment of police and the department, working together.
The guests were treated to refreshments afterwards.
