SA needs zero-tolerance policy, stronger preventative measures to stop violence against women and children - GBV activist

CAPE TOWN - GBV activists are calling for stronger preventative measures to help curb rising incidents of abuse, particularly against women and children.

This follows the release of SAPS (SA Police Service) crime statistics, which show that over 200 rape cases were reported nationwide between 31 March and 6 April.

Many of the victims were minors, with the youngest just 4-years-old.

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Caroline Peters, director of Callas Foundation, said that a zero-tolerance policy must be urgently enforced to address the ongoing crisis.

"Prevention must be earlier, consent education must be in school, communities must speak out not only when it hits the headlines, there must be a zero tolerance for anyone who protects or enables abusers."

Peters said it was time to prioritise justice for survivors and safety for children.

"We are tired of burying our children, we are tired of reading the same horror each week, survivors deserve justice and children deserve safety."