MEMBERS of the Montclair Social Crime Prevention unit, together with various government departments and non-governmental organisations, held an awareness campaign for the 16 Days of Activism at Wema Hostel near Montclair on November 27.

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Pamphlets with information about GBV and how to report crime to the police were distributed to the hostel dwellers.

Sergeant Noma Mnguni of the Montclair Police Station said, “Following the awareness session, the stakeholders visited the blocks at the hostel and engaged with the community to assess the level of safety.

“During these engagements, two serious cases were reported involving a couple frequently involved in violent altercations. The matter was referred to the police for intervention. Overall, the awareness campaign was successful.”

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The awareness campaign was attended by representatives of the Montclair Community Police Forum, Department of Social Development, Safer Cities, Community Safety, Department of Health and street ambassadors from Ward 75.

The 16 Days of Activism is a national United Nation’s campaign aimed at raising awareness and saying no to violence against women and children. It takes place from November 25 to December 10. The campaign for this year is taking place under the theme: 30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children.

Other key commemorative days during this period included World Aids Day on December 1 and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, on December 3 of every year.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile launched the 16 Days of Activism on Monday, November 25. In his address, he called on the community to collectively raise their voices to draw attention to the persistent violence against women and children.

Communities are urged to:

Be an activist against GBV in their homes, communities, work and positions:

• Challenge cultures and practices that perpetuate gender inequalities and consequent abuse on women and children
• Reject and report abusers
• Sign the pledge against GBV
• Teach children values of gender equality
• Develop policies that prevent and deal with GBV

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