The theme of the launch has been Ending Violence: Enhancing the Lives of Women and Girls in Rural Communities. This theme, according Deputy Minister Mkhize, has neatly captured the main aim of Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCC). “The TCCs promote healing of psychological scars inflicted on women and girls by gender violence and sexual abuse thereby enhancing the lives of women and girls in rural areas,” she said.
She paid tribute to the First Lady, Mama Makhumalo Zuma, who was also at the launch.
Participants included the MEC for Social Development in the Eastern Cape, Ms Nonkosi Mvana and President of NAFCOC Women’s Chamber, Ms Makgae. The launch was facilitated by the Special Director of the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority, Advocate Thoko Majokweni.
The Deputy Minister told about 1 200 people at the launch that “this gathering is important also because it falls within the 16 Days of Activism Campaign for No Violence Against Women and Children. Launching this Thuthuzela Care Centre now shows our commitment to the elimination of violence against Women.
The paramount Chief for Eastern Pondoland, Chief Mpondombini Sigcau, and the Chairperson of the National House of Traditional Leaders, Khosi Kutama, graced the occasion with their presence.
Thuthuzela Care Centres offer services and support to women and girls who have fallen victim to domestic violence and sexual abuse. Their services are prosecutor-led, victim-centred and geared to prevent secondary victimisation of victims and/or survivors. To date, 17 Thuthuzela Care Centres have been rolled out.
“South Africans,” said Deputy Minister Mkhize, “cannot be free as long as women are vulnerable to abuse, assault, rape and murder”.
Enquiries:
David Hlabane, MLO for Deputy Minister Mkhize
Cell: 082 052 3499
E-mail: david.hlabane@dcs.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Correctional Services
8 December 2009
