It is no secret that poverty still lingers in our less privileged communities and Gender-based Violence (GBV) continues to be a taboo subject to our women and youth. As such the City hosted an outreach programme GBV at Emthonjeni Centre in Zandspruit on 5 May 2022.
Although the focus was mainly on youth both genders were included in the education and awareness programme. When the first presenter asked the female youth if they knew what GBV is all about, none of them wanted to simply raise a hand. It was clear that they were shunning away from the subject maybe because a lot of them are not only victims but perpetrators as well.
This could be seen changing when other presenters continued with the programme. They started engaging and sharing negative experiences they have encountered from their partners or other persons.
Interestingly men in attendance were more interactive, seeking answers and clarity to situations they find themselves in. “We are often seen as perpetrators even in situations where we are the ones getting abused. Police have a negative perception towards us as men that we are always in the wrong and unfortunately some of the ladies are aware of that and they get away with it,” said Sizwe Nkosi programme attender.
As part of the session, different types of GBV were identified and explained such as sexual, emotional and physical amongst others.
Ms Martha Langa from Disabled Human Rights Centre (DHRC) the Criminal Justice system on GBVF urged victims of GBV to report cases even if the perpetrator is a family member, a friend or a loved one.
Female attendees were empowered by the large amounts of information that was disseminated including how to avoid unnecessary pregnancies by understanding their menstrual cycles and how to use contraceptives that will avoid STIs, HIV and Aids and other sexually transmitted diseases.
The event was flanked by a number of organisations such as the Family And Marriage Society of South Africa (Famsa), Dobsonville Human Rights Advice Centre, South African Police Services, Lifeline, Gauteng Province and others.
Members of the community also expressed their gratitude to the City and its efforts in bringing the programme to their areas.
“I feel so empowered by these programmes and to know that they are available in our area free of charge. We appreciate that the City cares for its youth,” said Busi Mbhele smiling.
Written By Thembelihle Radebe
10/05/2022