CGE calls on prioritization of Women and Persons with disabilities in combating COVID-19
Last night, His Excellency President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa briefed the nation about various measures that have been taken in order to combat the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak that has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In his address, President Ramaphosa declared a National State of Disaster.
The President in his address reiterated what the Minister of Health Dr. Zwelini Mkhize has been pronouncing over the past weeks; Wash hands for 20 seconds, maintain social distancing and avoid gatherings of more than 100 people. It is required for everyone to act in order to combat the spread of the disease and thus the Commission advises on wide public health information, in all languages to be disseminated across all media platforms.
The Commission notes continued concerns and complaints from citizens about the lack of water in many rural and peri-urban communities and it is worrisome that areas such as Giyani, Matatiele, Qwaqwa continue to face ongoing water shortages which directly impact the ability of individual citizens and communities to adhere to the information disseminated by the government. The Commission is worried about the threat of internal transmission and spreading of COVID -19, the rise in cases will mean disaster for many communities. The lack of details regarding the responsibility and actions currently being undertaken at local municipality and community level is worrisome.
We are calling on government to prioritise women, children, persons with disabilities and place in the centre, poor communities and those with vulnerabilities, many of whom in reality, cannot afford hand sanitizers, equally they cannot afford to miss work or work from home, and they rely on overcrowded public transport system. It is imperative that medical screening and testing for those in the rural and peri-urban areas do not get delayed because of a lack of infrastructure and capacity.
The Commission thanks the many dedicated and selfless health workers and allied support staff at this difficult time.
The CGE supports all the initiatives by government led by the Department of Health. We will monitor as mandated by the Commission for Gender Equality Act 39 of 1996, as amended in order to ensure that the rights of individuals are safeguarded whilst all efforts are being employed to combat COVID-19.
We are appealing to citizens to use the 0800 029 999 (COVID-19 Toll-Free Number) and 060 012 3456 (WHATS APP Hi in order to get an automated response). This will ensure that people avoid fake news and get accurate information on COVID-19.
Enquiries:
Contact Person: Javu Baloyi
Tel: 083 579 3306
