Community encouraged to be voices against GBV
"We, as a voice against child abuse, would like the whole community also to be the voice by reporting these matters to the authorities."
As we usher in Women’s Month, women and children’s rights activist Lizel van Eeden, the project manager of Matla A Bana has encouraged the community to speak out and be the voice of those who have fallen victim to gender-based violence (GBV).
Serious crimes against women and children have been topping the crime stats every year in categories such as murder, rape and sexual assault. Most of these crimes are committed behind the closed doors of their homes by people who have vowed to love and protect them against all costs.
Lizel, who works very closely with detectives who deal with the victims, said to denounce this scourge, it starts by supporting the victim.
“We, as a voice against child abuse, would like the whole community also to be the voice by reporting these matters to the authorities. We also encourage the community to find ways to assist the victims – whether by listening to their plight and/ or possibly finding a solution to their problem,” she urged.
She further encouraged people to identify just one person who requires help. “Sometimes you just need to look around your neighbourhood because there is someone who desperately needs your help. You can encourage them not to give up or get them the help they need,” she added.
With the effects of Covid-19 hammering away at the livelihoods of many, Lizel also encouraged the community to continue to be Good Samaritans. “We encourage people to give of their time to help others despite themselves being in tough times,” she said.
Lizel led by example on 31 July when her organisation put together 500 comfort packs for abused children in four provinces, including Gauteng.
To report gender-based violence, visit or call your nearest police station, or alternatively call the GBV hotline on 0800 150 150
