Mondeor SAPS launches 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
The theme of the event is how does one get out of an abusive relationships.
Mondeor SAPS together with other organisations launched the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign on November 24 at the Eikenhof community ground.
According to the host, Sergeant Elizabeth Mguni, the theme is ‘How does one get out of an abusive relationship’.
“People are aware of GBV, but they do not know where to go, which is why we invited various organisations. We have SANCA in our midst because we know how much drugs contribute to violence and as SAPS we have noticed that such things happen frequently in this community.
“The purpose of this initiative is to provide information and bring all organisations closer to them. We want people to understand that when violence occurs, especially when it involves our children, it is wrong.
“We aim to provide them with a path out. We also have the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to assist them in overcoming their difficulties,” said Mguni.
Mnguni emphasised that the event focuses on informing the community about how the justice system works and other important information to help them get out of abusive relationships.
“We want the community to avoid staying in an abusive relationship, and if they don’t know how to get out, there’s always the police station. They should end the relationship whether the violence happened once or twice,” said Mguni.
Mnguni added that there is an organisation called the Green Door if there is a need for immediate help.
“It is a home for victims, and they can contact me at 082 529 2947. On Thursdays, we have sessions where we talk about the challenges that women and men face,” said Mnguni.
Start a better life
Nazar Loonat, the outreach coordinator at SANCA Nisatara, says the event also focussed on the relationship between substance abuse and GBV.
“Remember, the theme is ‘how do I get out?’ So where is the better life if one is dependent on the abuser? Getting out is a start, but a better life means being empowered with opportunities to take control of their lives.
“This event is intended to, among other things, spread the anti-substance abuse gospel.
“We must inform the community that sexual exploitation, drug abuse, and GBV are major problems. We want to break the silence and let people know that they are not alone and that we are here to help them put an end to it,” said Nazar.
“We encourage people to take advantage of the services provided because if you do, everyone’s future will look better,” added Nazar.
There to help
Officer for court preparation for the NPA Bongi Magagula said they aim to raise awareness of their services as a support network.
“If someone wants to testify in court, they should be aware that there are people like us who can help them prepare by educating them about the courtroom setting and providing witness preparation advice,” said Magagula.
Magagula highlighted that the goal is to provide support so that people can testify confidently and to the best of their abilities.
“People must be aware of the resources available to them, utilise them, and refrain from dropping their cases out of fear or uncertainty about the outcome of their legal proceedings,” said Magagula.
