UMfolozi identified as regional GBV hotspot
THE 16 Days of Activism anti-GBV campaign must be taken to the areas identified as being the most dangerous for women to live in.
This call was made by uMfolozi Mayor Xolani Bhengu after it was revealed that many areas under the municipality were identified as GBV hotspots.
Areas including Slovo in KwaMbonambi, Ocelwane, Mbabe in KwaMthethwa reserve, and Sokhulu have been designated as the most likely areas for women to be raped, murdered or assaulted.
This was revealed by Bhengu on Wednesday at a 16 Days commemoration campaign at KwaMbonambi Taxi Rank.
Last month, a video went viral on social media, depicting the anguish experienced by a schoolgirl from Mpephose
High in Makhwezini after being continuously bullied at school.
This video prompted Mayor Bhengu to meet with the family of both the alleged abuser and the victim, to intervene and put an end to this terrible incident.
“We are concerned and startled by the numbers presented to us by the Empangeni NPA's Sexual Offences and Community Affairs branch, which show we are leading in terms of abuse of women and children under King Cetshwayo District,” said Bhengu.
“It is very unfortunate, and challenges us to work hard to educate our people about the importance of respecting each other at home because it has emerged that the majority of people who abuse each other are those who live together.”
He said the campaign to combat this atrocity must be taken to the places identified as the most dangerous for women to live in.
“One of the NPA's concerns is that many GBV cases are not being adequately followed up on because there is a lack of proper information and the victims don't follow up, which leads to the cases being discontinued.
“We urge those who have been victimised to come forward and file charges so this scourge can be put to rest,” added Bhengu.