16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children

Abstract

To mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children (25 November - 10 December) the University of South Africa's Institute for Social and Health Sciences (Unisa-ISHS) held a dialogue at the Don Mateman Hall in Eldorado Park. The convener of the event was Royal Lekoba. Over 90 community members participated in the event. Speakers included Inspector Basset of the Victim Empowerment Centre of the South African Police Services (SAPS) in Eldorado Park. She painted a picture of violence against women and children in the area. Basset addressed various problems affecting the Eldorado Park area, in particular domestic violence which is a major concern. From January 2008 until November 2008, 69 cases of assault resulting in serious injuries were reported for the area. Basset also stated that 537 applications for protection orders had been filed for the period. Abandoned children, substance abuse as well as school-related gangsterism were highlighted as other key issues affecting the youth in the area.