Matholesville initiative raises GBV awareness among elderly women
Lethabong Initiative raises awareness about the growing threat of gender-based violence against elderly women in Matholesville, particularly those targeted for their pension money.
Lethabong Initiative held an event to create awareness around gender-based violence (GBV) at Matholesville Community Centre on October 15.
According to founder Aretha Jelwana, the event focused on elderly women in the community, as they are frequently the target of GBV.
“We’ve been seeing a disturbing trend emerging in the area where the grannies are being bullied for their pension money,” said Jelwana.
“We have a lot of unemployment and drug and alcohol addiction among the youth here.
“When pension pay-out day comes around, many grannies live in fear because they know they are easy targets.
“They are also reluctant to open cases with the police out of fear of retribution.
“Our message on the day was that they should not be bullied and that the resources to keep them safe and protected are available.”
The day consisted of lively music by a number of choirs, who entertained the grannies.
This was followed by a number of guest speakers, including representatives from Roodepoort Police Station.
“We also involved the youth in this initiative, with learners from a local school attending,” added Jelwana.
After the formalities were concluded, the grannies enjoyed a delicious meal and received gift packs with personal hygiene products.
