The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) is greatly angered with the continued barbaric acts of violence against women and children in South Africa. We are disgusted and condemn the behaviour by men who have declared themselves as enemies of women in our society.
These men have declared all corners of our country unsafe and a no-go area for women of this country.
The brutal killings of Uyinene Mrwetyana and Leighnade Jegels adds pain and fear amongst women and girl children in our society. Women across the country are asking if the they are next in line. These recent killings are just a tip of the iceberg and showcases how patriarchal values are deeply entrenched in our society.
It is now clear, that the most endangered species in humanity, is a woman.
The NYDA can no longer turn a blind eye to such gruesome acts in our society, as this is an ongoing phenomenon which continues to violently steal from the nation.
It can no longer be business as usual, all men must always protect women and provide safety against perpetrators wherever they rear their ugly heads.
The Executive Chairperson of the NYDA, Mr Sifiso Mtsweni has called on government to rapidly introduce the National Youth Service Programme (NYSP), emphasizing that failure to urgently implement this programme creates less patriotic youth general and young men.
“We call on for an emergency intervention regarding the matter of Gender Based Violence in this country,” says Mr Mtsweni.
Mr Mtsweni further encourages that, “All men regardless of their social standing needs to be exemplary and stand against the killing of women and children. We are all responsible for the future of our country.”
“We demand government to increase its speed in finalising both the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and amending of the National Policy Framework in the Management of Sexual Offences. Our urgent task is to also push for a compulsory NYSP, which will help build patriotism amongst the youth creating a value system for our country, building unity and enabling social cohesion.”
Mr Mtsweni also calls for drastic measures to be taken specially by the judiciary of this country.
“We call for the introduction of specialised courts for gender based violence and a register of all men who have violated women. The South African Police ministry must ascertain that there are systems in place to ensure that perpetrators face the strong might of the law.”
It is with sadness and utter disappointment to learn of such acts that have taken a hike during what was supposed to be a month of women being assured of their safety in society.
The NYDA extends its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of Uyinene Mrwetyana, Leighnade Jegels and the countless brutally murdered women.
Enquiries:
Bongekile Skosana (Specialist Media Liaison and Public Relations)
Cell: 060 978 6000
Lerato Gambu (NYDA Spokesperson)
Cell: 064 860 0716
