Activists hike for young rape survivors
A group of activists, named Team Uhuru, is on a mission to raise awareness about the effects of rape on the mental health of survivors.
The group of ten (10) gym enthusiasts, runners, hikers, and health care workers will embark on an initiative to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania on the 30th of September 2021.
Speaking at a press conference recently, team member Galaletsang Dintsi said their group desires to see rape survivors getting help from relevant institutions. She said they have targeted young people because they are in a critical stage of their lives. “Numbers also show that these adolescents are the most targeted.
“They are still growing and going into a pubescent stage. So we are embarking on this mission to ensure that they get the right help from the right people,” said Dintsi.
Team Uhuru has strategically partnered with Gaborone Rehabilitation and Emergency Centre, an organisation of clinical psychologists trained to offer counselling for survivors.
But before they reach the peak of Kilimanjaro, Team Uhuru has several challenges to tackle as summiting the highest mountain in Africa requires rigorous training and thoughtful planning.
They do not have a sponsor for trekking packages, which includes taking care of trekkers, guides, cooks, porters, and protective clothing. “Mount Kilimanjaro is not kind. After all, it is the highest in Africa. So safety comes first. We are looking for sponsors to help with these requirements.
“We need someone to support 40 young people and their guardians for 12 sessions. This needs a total amount of P460 000. If one adopts one child it is P5400 00 for those sessions.
“We are pleading with the public to contribute any amount, as it will go a long way in helping us and the young survivors,” Dintsi said. Dintsi added that it is up to organisations like theirs to fight other societal challenges like rape since the government is currently focusing on the fight against COVID-19.
Botswana is considered a rape nest due to escalating incidences of rape. According to world statistics, Botswana is second after South Africa, in terms of countries with the highest incidences of rape in the world.