Dukwana and Meeko launch 16 Days of GBV in Botshabelo

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – The launch of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence on Wednesday by Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana and acting MEC for Social Development, Thabo Meeko has shone a light on the impact of alcohol in communities.

That’s according to a counselor at Setshabelo Family and Child Services centre.

“In family systems counseling, many cases come to my table that involve the fact of or threat of violence against women and children.
These experiences of violence, especially substance addiction-fueled violence are the cause of trauma.

Matseba continued.

“Adverse Childhood Experiences make children susceptible to the development of borderline personality and related disorders. These are some of the challenges that we, as therapists, meet. More than 50% of cases of violence against women and children reported at my office have a substance abuse factor in them.”

A social worker at the center urged men to change their behavior.

“We pledge solidarity and standing against gender-based violence against women and children through our social behavioral change program.

We engage with different people from different spheres of life but we are mostly targeting men and boys through our men and championing change programs.”

A four-year girl was raped after being dragged out of bed in Ladybrand in June and to date, the perpetrator has not been found.

Setshabelo Family and Child Centre is situated in Botshabelo and has been offering services since 2014.

It has 14 people who need clothing, food, medical assistance, shelter, counseling, temporary victim support services, and day-to-day necessities.

For any donations or help they can be contacted at: 051 5319001

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