Lazarus Mokgosi, the MEC for Social Development in the North West, officially launched the Annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign at Reivilo Golf Club in Taung. The launch, held under the theme "Accelerating actions to end Gender-Based Violence & Femicide (GBV&F): Leaving No One Behind," aims to address the pervasive issue of violence against women and children in society.
This year's sub-theme, "Safe access for women to clean water: a basic human right," highlights the broader societal approach needed to combat GBV&F. It specifically focuses on the challenges women face in safely accessing water and sanitation in South Africa. The 16 Days of Activism Campaign, a United Nations initiative, runs annually from November 25 (International Day for No Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day).
Mokgosi said the 25th-anniversary milestone signifies South Africa's enduring commitment to raising awareness about the devastating impact of GBV&F on women, children, and the social fabric of society. As part of the campaign, Mokgosi visited the families of GBV survivors and child-headed households in the area.
A service delivery blitz was also conducted on-site, providing residents with access to government services from various departments and state-owned entities. Addressing a crowd of around 1 000, Mokgosi strongly denounced gender-based violence and spoke about the link between substance abuse and GBV.
The campaign aligns with the department's festive season initiative, educating communities about the adverse effects of alcohol and substance abuse, responsible drinking, and spending during the holiday season. However, despite efforts to curb gender-based violence, recent crime statistics reveal persistent challenges.
According to Police Minister General Bheki Cele's presentation of the Second Quarter Crime Statistics 2023/2024, fewer women and children were killed between July and September 2023. However, disturbingly, crimes against women and children by people known and trusted remain prevalent. “During this period, 1 514 incidents of attempted murder involving female victims were reported, along with 14 401 cases of Assault GBH. Children also suffered, with 293 reported deaths, 361 attempted murders, and 1,820 Assault GBH incidents,” said Cele.
In response to recent successes in apprehending GBVF perpetrators, Cele stressed the need for a comprehensive approach involving law enforcement, government, and society. He highlighted recent achievements, including the identification and arrest of 27 sexual predators and the sentencing of Mario Giusti, found guilty of over 1, 000 charges of child pornography.
As the 16 Days of Activism campaign gains momentum, the call to confront and eradicate violence against women and children becomes more urgent, requiring a collective and sustained effort from all sectors of society.
