Kuils River Police launched the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children on Wednesday 26 November with an awareness event held at Van Riebeeck Hall.
The event brought together various stakeholders, including representatives from the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Spiritual Crime Prevention (SCP), the City’s social development and health departments, education department social workers, the Department of Justice, Hope House, Badisa, Graceful Care Unlimited, and ward councillors.
Women from Kalkfontein were among the guests. The gathering focused on creating awareness about gender-based violence and domestic violence in the community, with exhibits showcasing resources and services available to the public.
Work together
In her address, Kuils River Police Station Commander Lt Col Ntombizodidi Mahamba referenced the national 16 Days theme “Letsema”, meaning “working together”.
“The theme says men, women, girls and boys should work together to end gender-based violence and femicide,” Mahamba said. She stressed that whilst the responsibility does not rest with men alone, men must definitely be involved.
While acknowledging that the majority of perpetrators are men, she recognised that men can also be victims. “Gender-based violence is all about getting control over your victim. And yes, it’s based on gender identity,” she explained.
Mahamba highlighted how parents’ behaviour and words can influence their children’s impressionable minds. “Abusive behaviour or words spoken in resentment can shape perceptions about the opposite gender. If you keep saying ‘men are dogs’ in front of your girl child, how will they see a person of the opposite gender?” she asked.
She warned that unresolved emotions will eventually surface, noting: “Hurting people hurt people.”
Mahamba cautioned against laying false charges but also against withdrawing legitimate charges. She warned that women can “have so much strength” that they sometimes endure too much.
Whilst stating that the biggest responsibility “starts with parents”, Mahamba also called on the community and non-governmental organisations to assist in addressing societal challenges.
“Let’s work together,” she urged.
Events
The 16 Days of Activism runs until Wednesday 10 December.
On Saturday 29 November a child safety programme was held at Jan Kriel School, where police took fingerprints and other details to create a children’s database for parents should a child go missing.
Yesterday (Tuesday 2 December), a Wellness Day was held on Hoogenoeg Farm for women, focusing on domestic violence, gender-based violence and self-care.
Later this week, stop-and-search operations will take place in collaboration with neighbourhood watch members and other law enforcement agencies to address crime against all vulnerable groups.
The campaign concludes on 10 December with an awareness event at the Dutch Reformed Church Kuilsrivier-Suid (Suidkerk), with guests from the rural community.
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