uMfolozi community called to protect children

Schoolchildren are off limits to men, and must be protected.

This was the message shared by uMfolozi Mayor Xolani Bhengu at a community dialogue held at eNhlabosini community hall last Thursday.

Joined by KwaMthethwa Tribal Authority, the mayor used this platform to say men must not ‘propose love’ to schoolchildren after five primary school children were raped in the area.

The event, which was called by local iziNduna in response to the high level of gender-based violence in the area, started with a peaceful march.

“Last week, a 16-year-old schoolgirl was found dead after she went missing in Ward 8. We know the perpetrators are men. We call on anyone who might have information to assist the police,” said Bhengu.

“We also recall that last year, during the celebration of maidens, one of them was raped. This is despicable.

“This fight is not the responsibility of the police, municipality, church leaders or iziNduna – it is the responsibility of the entire community to stand up and report perpetrators to the police.

“[They] live among us; they live in our homes with their families. They have parents and siblings. We urge everyone to play a role in eradicating this scourge in our area.”

Bhengu added that in September, the municipality will support local amaKhosi by providing maidens with transport to attend the Reed Dance taking place at Emachobeni Palace.

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