Activist in Standerton speaks out about GBV

Buhlebenkosi Makhaba’s death has had a significant impact on the Sakhile community and highlights the challenges young women in the area face daily.

Anele Cele, a local activist and advocate for women’s rights, stated that this is a tragic reality for young girls in townships.

“Sadly, most of the time, young girls are raped and murdered by people they know and trust,” said Cele.

As a young mother herself, Cele expressed how difficult it is to know your child is not safe without constant supervision.

She emphasised the need to always know where your child is to minimize the risk of kidnapping, rape, or assault.

“This case has shown parents in the community that they cannot trust anyone with the safety of their children,” Cele said.

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The scariest part, she said, is that many cases go unreported to parents or the SAPS because victims are terrified of what their abusers might do if reported.

According to Cele, many offenders are even protected by the victims’ families.

“In some cases, children are raped by parental figures such as stepfathers, and the mother tries to protect him,” said Cele.

In one case Cele was involved in, a child disclosed that she was forced to live with her rapist and was told not to report the case to the police because it was a family matter.

“Sadly, parents who want to protect their children do not always have the resources to do so. Parents need to maintain open communication with their children to foster trust, so the children feel safe discussing these topics,” pleaded Cele.