PRETORIA-Today marks the first day of 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.This campaign is observed globally to raise awareness to issues pertaining to violence, the protection of women, children and the survivors of this atrocities.
The campaign coincides with the five days of honoring those who have lost their lives due to COVID-19 and gender based violence declared by President Cyril Ramaphosa in one of his key note addresses. In his adress, the president further encouraged South Africans to wear a black item of clothing for the five days which will commence today 25 November until 29 November 2020, which will symbolise the country is in mourning.
President Ramaphosa spoke with conviction as he encouraged every citizen to take action in the fight against this pandemic and not sit and idle while the issue persists.Government officials are seen across the country showing true leadership, leading marches to create awareness through this campaign.
The minister in the presidency Mr Jackson Mthembu speaking from the union buildings in Pretoria was heard stating that flags are flown at half mast in conjunction with the playing of the national anthem by members of the SAPS band in accordance with ceremonial disciplines under the theme of “women’s economic justice for a non-violent and non-sexist South Africa.”
