MBDA intensifies anti-gender based violence efforts
The MBDA invites the public and civil society to take the streets of Schauderville to march against gender-based violence. The March will start at 08:30am on the 26th of November, meeting stop is High Field Road leading to Neave Street Park.
The MBDA has partnered with Enough Noow to support the intervention under domestic violence prevention, under the portfolio of psycho-social projects, which focuses on awareness of gender-based violence, trauma debriefing and capacitation of community-based organisations to implement interventions of this nature in our communities.
Over the years, the MBDA has built strong relations with community organisations, schools, FAMSA, PE Mental Health in an attempt to connect and inform victims along with survivors about the available assistance. This includes various community based and non-profit organisations, and non-government organisations, church formations etc. SAPS, Traffic services.
“Nationally and even locally, there also has been an increase in rape and murder in Schauderville, hence the importance of creating awareness for victims to get the support that they need. We are honoured and grateful to the MBDA for affording with an opportunity of spreading this message, said Enough deputy chairperson, Apostle Ruth Williams.
The MBDA aims to play its role in reducing domestic violence through the provision of social services, public awareness, victim care and support. “Our role ensures that sustainable projects are a benefit to a wider community whilst empowering vulnerable groups in Nelson Mandela Bay”, MBDA Spokesperson, Luvuyo Bangazi.
“Violence against women and children is a daily reality. Victims should be empowered to have a voice and speak out. With this said, we need more robust interventions to ensure successful prosecution of perpetrators and justice for those who have been violated”, added Williams.
If you know someone who is being abused, please take the following steps:
Provide the necessary help and support to a friend, family member or someone else who has experienced or is experiencing gender-based violence.
Do not suffer in silence: if you are being physically, psychologically, emotionally or sexually abused, talk to someone you can trust such as a friend, neighbour, relative, spiritual leader or elder, doctor or counsellor.
Get professional help by opening a criminal case against the abuser for rape, sexual assault, or violence. Also consider applying for a protection order at your nearest Magistrate’s Court.
Emergency Contact Number:
- Children: 116
- National Aids Helpline: 0800 222 777
- Stop Gender Violence: 0800 150 150
- Suicide Helpline: 0800 567 567
- South African Police Services: 08600 10111
- GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428