The Minister of Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Lulu Xingwana has appealed to communities to be extra vigilant against acts of abuse towards vulnerable members of society during the festive period.
Xingwana says although the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign ended on the 10th of December this does not mean that activism must stop.
“We are in a season where a lot of people are taking a well-deserved rest reflecting on the year that was and hopefully planning ahead. Sadly, this is also a season where, as families and friends are gathering at various festive activities, there is a lot of substance and alcohol abuse which often than not leads to abusive behavior.”
Recently there has been many cases of abuse involving women and children that have been dominating the headlines. Just this week a 33-year-old mother of three, in Blikkiesdorp in the Western Cape, attempted to sell her five-month old baby for R40 to allegedly buy alcohol.
The five-month old baby was rescued by a Good Samaritan who called in social workers and the police which lead to the arrest of the woman and the rescuing of the baby two other young children.
“The good Samaritan deserves to be praised for her bravery. She is an example of what can be achieved when members of society play an active role in combating criminal acts,” states Xingwana appealing to parents, guardians and communities to continue protecting children by exercising responsible parenting.
Minister Xingwana furthermore wished all South Africans a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year urging them to take up the mantle of fighting abuse in our communities by not looking away but acting against abuse or abusive behavior wherever it manifests.
For more information please contact the following:
Ministry: Mr Motalatale Modiba: Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 072 515 3022
Tel: 012 359 0023
E-mail: motalatale.modiba@dwcpd.gov.za
Department (Corporate):
Ms Kenosi Machepa: Chief Director Communication
Tel: +2712 369 0196
E-mail: kenosi.machepa@dwcpd.gov.za
