South Africa continues to battle the pandemic of gender-based violence (GBV) and we need to remain committed to the fight for 365 days of the year. The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December places the spotlight on this scourge.
To launch the 2023 campaign, the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) engaged with various partners on Friday 24 November in Montagu, Langeberg. Stakeholders such as the Western Cape Government, Langeberg Municipality, SAPS and various other community-based organisations were present to show solidarity against GBV, especially in our most vulnerable communities.
Councillor Minnie Petersen, portfolio holder for Rural and Social Development, motivated the attendees with these words: “While the campaign runs for only 16 days each year, our objective is to install a year-long proactive approach to combat this pandemic in our societies. As it affects all of us, we all need to be involved. We must strive to create a safe family environment and leave no one behind as we continue this fight.”
It is well known that a great number of GBV cases are not reported. The CWDM wants to assure our citizens that victimisation and suffering need not continue. Help is available. There are organisations and people determined to help you become a survivor. All you need to do is ask for help. We oppose all forms of gender-based violence and make our stance on this issue abundantly clear.
We have implemented various programmes, activist events and workshops aimed at confronting and preventing gender-based violence throughout our district. Together with our partners and the community, we will herald a new era of awareness and the rejection of all gender-based violence in society.
Western Cape Women’s Shelter Movement: 082 903 8739 Gender-based Violence Command Centre: 0800 428 428 Police: 10111 Childline: 0861 322 322 South African National Human Trafficking hotline: 0800 222 777 Provincial Department of Social Development: 021 483 5045 National Department of Social Development tollfree line: 0800 220 250 Provincial Department of Social Development, Cape Winelands regional office: 023 348 5300 GBVCC: Call 0800 428 428. Send a “please call me” to 120*7867#; Skype: “Helpme GBV”; SMS “Help” to 315131. TCC – Worcester Hospital: 023 348 1294 A complete list of contact details for victims of crime and violence is available at www.westerncape.gov.za/social-development You can also contact your nearest court, clinic, or hospital. |
