Violence Against Women
Source: All Africa
The Multi-Party Women's Caucus has heard that the theme of this year's 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign will focus on men, as they are the most common perpetrators of the violence.
The Caucus, which has members from all political parties represented in Parliament, received a briefing on the 2014 campaign from the Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Women, Ms Susan Shabangu. She said previous campaigns had been successful, but they had been victim-centred and did not reach out to the perpetrators as part of the solution. As a result, sustained behavioural and societal change had not been achieved.
"Violence against women and children continues unabated. This therefore calls for the activism to be intensified, particularly in rural areas where there are low levels of awareness. This will bring on board all other stakeholders that have been left out in the past 15 years of the campaign," Ms Shabangu said.
Caucus Chairperson Ms Masefele Morutoa expressed appreciation that the campaign will focus on rural areas as well. She said various civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, traditional leaders and the sports fraternity will be included in this year's campaign.
The programme of action (POA) starts with a national debate on the campaign in the National Assembly (NA) and provincial legislatures on Friday, 21 November. A torch of peace will be lit before entering the NA and candles will be lit in various provincial legislatures.
The POA also includes the Nelson Mandela Walk to raise awareness about violent crimes around the country; the clearing problem areas such as open fields and areas overgrown with vegetation; a national prayer session at the Johannesburg Stadium; and a programme of awareness during the soccer match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at Johannesburg's FNB Stadium and the Pimville Men's march.
Annual campaigns by government such as World Aids Day and Arrive Alive will also focus on violence against women and children.
Various Caucus members expressed their appreciation that the campaign will put special focus on rural areas. Caucus member Ms Makoti Khawula said rural women need the campaign more, as they do not always know where to find help.
Another Caucus member, Ms Nthibane Mokoto, said members need to make the campaign work, irrespective of party politics, as violence against women and children knows no colour. The Caucus agreed to take the programme to their constituencies.
Rajaa Azzakani