N Rasmeni on 16 Days of Activism

8 December 2006

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children is a
United Nations (UN) campaign, which takes place annually from 25 November
(International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International
Human Rights Day). Since 1999 the South African Government has marked this day,
and has ensured that the campaign is extended to include issues relating to
violence against children. The 16 Days of Activism campaign focuses primarily
on generating an increased awareness of the negative impact of violence on
women and children as well as society as a whole. The year 2006 marks the 16th
anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

“There is reluctance on the part of victims of violence to come forward and
seek legal advice and social support. This could be due to insufficient
knowledge of their rights, the social stigma around domestic violence or the
inaccessibility of police stations and courts to rural women. In the few cases
where false reporting of rape has occurred, the individuals must be made aware
of the impact of their actions through popularisation of key messages.

The department encourages media to serve as an educational platform for
women and children who are abused. There has to be sensitive, professional and
responsible coverage and reporting of these issues. There is also a perception
that violence against women and children is increasing. Intensive efforts
should be made to encourage women and children to report abuse and violence to
relevant public institutions,” explain MEC Nomonde Rasmeni

“In most categories of crime, the level of violent crimes against women and
children remain unacceptably high. In order to curb the continuing trend, there
is a need to also target intermediaries such as police officials, community
health workers, councillors, community development workers, and officials
working for the various civil society organisations to spread the campaign
message,” concluded MEC Nomonde Rasmeni.

Enquiries:
Zakes Molala
Tel: (018) 387 5830
Fax: (018) 387 5830
E-mail: lmolala@nwpg.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Health, North West Provincial Government
8 December 2006
Source: North West Department of Health (http://www.nwhealth.gov.za)
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