Questions about gender-based violence

ALUTA PARK – The Rehoboth of Kings Community Centre (RKCC) acknowledged a need for awareness to highlight effective intervention when it comes to gender-based violence. The centre celebrated 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children at Chris Hani Primary School on Saturday.
Aluta Park, known as Extension 17, has a high rate of substance abuse, teenage pregnancies and crime.
“We used this event to raise awareness about the devastating impact of gender violence and to celebrate the victories gained by local non-profit organisations,” says RKCC manager, Mmakgoshi Mushi. “We challenge policies and practices that allow women to be targeted for acts of violence and demand that violence against women and children be widely recognised as an abuse of basic human rights,” she says, adding that the issue should be dealt with accordingly.
Mushi said gender-based violence affects everyone. “Gender violence destroys families, weakens the fabric of society, and takes a toll on our communities and our economy.”.
The campaign highlighted the fact that everyone can be a victim of violence. The resolution will underline the humanitarian concerns raised by gender-based violence and point out concrete implementation measures that can be done, said Thandeka Mahlangu, who counsels in the area.“One of the fundamental values we hold is that everyone has the right to feel safe and be free from abuse,” she says. “Family violence is not only about physical assault, but refers to power and control issues which may include emotional and psychological torment which causes a person to live in fear.”
The RKCC plays an integral role to empower particularly youngsters in the area. “Rehoboth have new programmes to enable individuals to gain skills and knowledge. Our programmes offer solution to common obstacles that youngsters experience. We offers skills surrounding social issues, business sector and sport, arts and culture,” Mushi concludes.