Khayelitsha activists rev up anti-GBV battle as we draw closer to "16 days of activism against GBV" #UthuleleniAnti-GBVF

Activists against gender-based violence organized a motorcade in Khayelitsha on Thursday to bring attention to the issue in the lead-up to the festive season. 

The motorcade started at Harare Police Station and made a stop at Khayelitsha Mall where they engaged with community members, expressing concerns about the increase in reported rape cases in the last quarter. 

The #UthuleleniAnti-GBVF drive was hosted by support organization Ilitha Labantu, in collaboration with Harare SAPS, Emthonjeni Counselling and Training, Community Policing Forum, and Equal Education.

Siya Monakali, a spokesperson for the campaign, stated that the motorcade was organized in response to the rise in violence against women and children in the Harare community. 

Daphney Arosi from Equal Education explained their involvement, emphasizing the need to raise awareness about the dangers children face during the December holidays. 

Arosi highlighted that incidents of rape tend to increase during this period, with young children being particularly vulnerable as they often ask for treats like sweets, presenting an opportunity for predators to exploit them.

The decision to visit the mall was made because of its high foot traffic, allowing the activists to reach a larger audience and raise awareness about the prevalence of gender-based violence in Khayelitsha. 

Arosi acknowledged that it is unclear whether rape and sexual offenses are at an all-time high due to the growing number of informal settlements and overpopulation. However, she noted that there is a noticeable spike during the holidays when children are at home and many adults are also present.

Arosi revealed that they have encountered numerous young victims of sexual assault, with many of them confiding in their teachers, who sometimes blame the children for the abuse.