Defence ministry participates in 16 Days Activism campaign

By Ofentse Mokae
28 November 2009

The South African National Defence Force soldiers took part in a parade in Pretoria yesteray marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Women and Child Abuse campaign.

Spokesperson for the department Siphiwe Dlamini said their participation was symbolic and was intended to show that soldiers were also involved in the fight against abuse.

The city’s police and metro police officers also took part in the parade.

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children is an international campaign.

It takes place every year from 25 November.

During this time, the South African Government runs a 16 Days of Activism Campaign to make people aware of the negative impact of violence on women and children and to act against abuse.

2009 marks the 10-year anniversary of the 16 Days Campaign in South Africa.

In the campaign focus is on the abuse of women and children, which are reinforced by the year long 365 Days Programme.