As the 16 Days of Activism of No Violence Against Women and Children gains momentum in the country, members of Isipingo SAPS, community stakeholders and members of the public gathered in unison to create awareness about the second pandemic that is wreaking havoc in South Africa, gender-based violence.
Women, who are key role-players in the community, spoke out about the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) and divulged explosive realities to help educate and empower the community. Isipingo SAPS spokesperson, Warrant Officer Pam Kisten, said various role-players including female speakers from Bobby Bear, Gems Foundation, Durban Child Welfare, Isipingo CPF, Amanzimtoti CPF, Sparrow Trust and the MVG organisation, shared enlightening information on domestic violence, GBV, children in troubled homes, human trafficking and cyber crime.
“The event was well received. Appreciation is extended to various role-players that ensured the message was received by the people in attendance. The queen of comedy, Bash with Tash, aka Natashia Portrag, made a surprise entrance and amid the laughs, she offered pertinent information to spotlight the gravity of GBV. The attendees were excited at her presence and listened intently when she spoke.”
W/O Kisten said tribute was also paid to women police officers and community members who passed away during the past year as well as a police officer who was a victim of GBV.
She said it is crucial that the silence and stigma of domestic violence and abuse is shattered. “The families of the members who passed on were handed plaques and certificates while the women present received tokens,” she said.
Meanwhile on Friday, Isipingo SAPS and other stakeholders hosted a Vulnerable Children Christmas Party at four crèches in the area. The little ones were ecstatic when a Minion character, Winnie the Pooh and Santa Claus danced and sang along with them as they collected their lunch treat and Christmas lucky dip.
“Our goal is to ensure that vulnerable community members received some good cheer to lift their spirits amidst their trials and tribulations,” added W/O Kisten.
PT Alarms provided sumptuous snacks and beverages for the Domestic Violence seminar while Alpha Alarms and the Isipingo Business Forum sponsored lunch treats and lucky dips for the children. “We are grateful for all stakeholders who have pledged their support to uplift the community during this 16 Days of Activism campaign and we want to ensure that the message of GBV continues throughout the year,” W/O Kisten said.
