As we enter the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Abuse, there is a need for a collective effort to deal with the growing murder and rape of young women and innocent children.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional development is committed to work with interested parties and community members to deal with various sexual offences and abuse which is often perpetrated against vulnerable people in our societies.
We are saddened by the reported rape and murder of young girls, school boy in Gauteng and other victims of harassment, especially as it occurs on the eve of this noble campaign. These heinous crimes have a potential to corrode the moral fiber of our communities and undermine the noble principles enshrined in the constitution.
In order to effectively give meaning to this year theme, which effectively says it is enough, the department would like to urge community members to report all kinds of violent conducts and abuse, especially those committed against the most vulnerable people.
Since 1994, the Department of Justice has consistently introduced new initiatives to deal with gender based violence. This year, we introduced a new model for sexual offences courts, which will create a conducive court environment for victims of sexual violence and lead to greater conviction rates.
This year Minister of Justice, Jeff Radebe has announced that at least 22 sexual offences court would be up and running, in a revival of the system of dedicated courts to fight rape. Another 35 sexual offences courts would be set up within the next three years.
To affirm the rights of the victims as enshrined in the Constitution, the President signed into law the Protection from Harassment Act which protects all the people in the county from any form of harassment.
This Act was followed by the signing of the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in person Act, which will enable law enforcement agencies and communities to effectively deal with the growing trend of human trafficking.
Together with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), we would like to introduce the Thuthuzela Care Centres model close to the people to increase the chances of conviction on rape cases. To date 35 Thuthuzela Centres have been launched around the country and many more will be introduce to varying communities.
On Friday, 29 November 2013 the department will be launching the safety plan for potential victims of domestic violence which is aimed at preventing domestic violence. The intention is to prevent any form of domestic abuse.
While the campaign is only allocated for 16 days in a calendar year, the department would like to encourage all stakeholders to work tirelessly in the fight against gender based violence for all the days in the calendar. Kwanele, let us unite to prevent violence against women and children.
Enquiries
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, Spokesperson
Cell: 083 641 8141
