Plans in motion for awareness walk

ZULULAND rape activist, Jan Mabuyakhula is rallying support for his 224km walk from Richards Bay to Durban in June to create awareness against sexual abuse and to raise funds for rape victims.

This walk is aimed at encouraging the public to take a stand against these horrendous crimes, report sexual offences and ensure hefty imprisonment sentences are imposed on perpetrators.

Last year, Mabuyakhulu took a bold stand against rape and launched a campaign ‘Operation Khuzumhlohla’ after two of his friends’ young daughters were raped and killed in February in Jozini.

The girls’ decomposed bodies were discovered in a bush and this traumatic experience spurred him to speak out and encourage men to be protectors of women and children.

He started the walk on 1 May, visited different towns, met with leaders and completed it 10 days later.

The 41-year-old father believes it will take a collective effort to champion and put an end to violence against women and children.

‘The preparations are in progress for the walk which begins on 1 June and will end on 16 June.

‘The venture coincides with Youth Month and I hope to create awareness while raising funds for victims of sexual abuse and those who have lost love ones to brutal rape attacks.

‘I am looking for accommodation along the route on the N2 from Richards Bay to oThongati and then along M4 past uMhlanga Rocks.

‘Sponsorships of walking clothing and shoes are also welcome and companies can brand the gear in support of this project.

‘The non-profit organisation, Masibambane Community Care Centre, will benefit from this walk.’

Any donations can be deposited into the following account :SJ Mabuyakhulu, account no. 9191936068, ABSA Bank, and he can be contacted on 079 4370138.