​Gauteng Department of Social Development conducted an awareness campaign against Gender Based Violence (GBV) at Carletonville Taxi Rank in Merafong Area, West Rand last week Friday. 
This is in response to the scourge of Gender Based Violence in the country, which has been declared a national pandemic. 

The awareness campaign is aimed at intensifying levels of awareness and educate communities regarding violence against women, children, and other vulnerable groups. The campaign also intends to sensitize communities on the scourge of trafficking in persons with an intent to profile the work, service and programmes offered by government and non-profit organization that should assist community members or anyone they know find themselves being victims of gender-based violence. 

“Please do not hesitate to come to our office. We will offer you counselling at no cost, please utilize our services that are meant for you”, said West Rand Regional Social Worker Sibongile Nkutha,

42 years old Ntate Mohlala, raised some of the challenges faced by men. “We are happy as men to be approached by government officials so that we can raise our challenges. Our wives do abuse us and when we go to the police station, we are victimized further by police who are supposed to protect all the citizens. We are not free to report because they laugh at us (men), and we will come to your offices for assistance. Social Workers are our last hope”. 

“If you are being abused by women, please come to our office at 102 Annan Road here in Carletonville. We will never judge you, if you want to report a case at the police station, we will support you. As Social Development, we condemn all forms of abuse”, Nkhutha said.