The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) officially launched its 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign on 27 November 2022, at Breede River Management Area, Western Cape Region. The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign is a United Nations campaign which takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).
This year’s theme is: “Socio-Economic Rights and Empowerment to build Women’s Resilience against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: Connect, Collaborate, Contract!”. During the 16 days, government focuses on raising awareness to the devastating impact that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has on women and children, and the social fabric of our society.
The National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale commended the Western Cape Region on the work done during GBVF workshops held at Worcester Correctional Centre for both officials and offenders. The reports on the workshops were presented and reflected on matters relating to GBVF as well as the role of DCS in that sphere. Commissioner Thobakgale acknowledged the reports and further mentioned that DCS can do more in providing psycho-social support to deal with shame and trauma, especially on the victims of GBVF. He also emphasised the importance of having measures and viable solutions to some of the issues raised, including the roll-out of self-defence classes for female officials, further education of offenders on different aspects and situations that may lead to GBVF related crimes.
Furthermore, Commissioner Thobakgale amplified the need for DCS to implement the three ‘Cs’ encompassed in this year’s theme, namely; Connect, Collaborate and Contract, adding that they are important and practical solutions in dealing with GBVF as DCS and the nation at large. “For us to win the battle against any form of crime, including GBVF, we should collaborate with other stakeholders. Without collaboration, our strength continues to be individualised and weakened,” said Commissioner Thobakgale.
Upon delivering her message of support, Councillor (Cllr) of Ward 11 in Breede River, Margaret Sampson urged all attendees to be vigilant citizens who are sensitised to their surroundings and to report all crimes relating to GBVF at their nearest police stations. “We should not actually be sitting here, but we should be out there standing in front of the magistrate court office and oppose bail for people who are perpetrators of crimes against women and children,” said Sampson.
Ntombesintu Mfunzi, an official from St Albans Management Area, in the Eastern Cape Region, who is also a rape survivor narrated her horrible experience and on how she overcame some of the challenges. Through her painful experience, Ms Mfunzi now gives hope to those who need it and has since written a book titled: ‘Yoyisa’ – An IsiXhosa word meaning ‘overcome’. She is now a successful athlete who uses her running not only as a coping mechanism but also as a tool to illustrate her strides and strong character.
As part of supporting victims of GBVF in the area, DCS officials identified two care centres namely, Thuthuzela Care Centre and House of Hope for the role they play in the community by rendering services to victims. They contributed funds from their own pockets and bought primary healthcare products such as sanitary towels.
Affirming DCS’ unequivocal commitment to fight against the scourge of GBVF, Commissioner Thobakgale signed a pledge on the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, and encouraged all officials to work together with law enforcement agencies and report any form of suspected abuse.