🇿🇦South AfricaSouthern Africa
Eastern Cape MEC calls for united action against gender-based violence and child abuse
via The Citizen3 min read
The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has urged officials and the public to collaborate in combating the increasing rates of femicide and child abuse. MEC Bukiwe Fanta reported that department statistics show 60 women were killed since January, and 3,168 child abuse cases were reported. These child abuse cases include 35 abandoned children, 1,328 sexual abuse cases, 153 emotional abuse cases, and 279 physical abuse cases. The Alfred Nzo municipality recorded the highest number of sexual abuse cases with 366, followed by OR Tambo district with 362, Nelson Mandela metro with 278, and Chris Hani district with 136. The MEC expressed shock over the brutal murder and rape of women in Dudula and Masakala villages, highlighting that six women have died due to gender-based violence in Matatiele since April. Fanta described the violence as a national crisis fueled by toxic masculinity, societal indifference, and systemic inequalities. The department is committed to addressing this crisis by strengthening support systems for survivors, providing legal, psychological, and emotional care. Fanta called on communities to break the silence, foster a culture where victims feel safe to report abuse, and support survivors. She emphasized the importance of education and awareness campaigns to change societal attitudes and instill values of respect, consent, and equality. Fanta also stressed the need for swift action against perpetrators, ensuring they face the full weight of the law.
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