GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Deputy Speaker of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, Mlibo Qoboshiyane, told Graaff-Reinet residents that violence against women and children is the shame of our nation, echoing the words of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The annual Sixteen Days of Activism for no violence against women and children campaign started on Monday 25 November and will continue until 10 December.

Qoboshiyane was accompanied by Dr Beyers Naudé District Municipality Mayor Deon de Vos, Speaker Thembisa Nonnies, and other executive ANC members during a visit to the Umasizakhe Town Hall and the Vuyane Safe Haven. Hours before the meeting hundreds of people gathered outside the town hall in order to secure their seats. At Vuyane, food, toys and sport equipment were distributed.

"We must assure a better future for our children," Qoboshiyane said. He described the youth as the next generation of leaders and said some of them will lead the country as parliamentarians.

He told the moms and dads, "Your kids deserve to be loved."

Hundreds of children and adults attended the launch of the anti violence campaign at the Umasizakhe Town Hall.

Assistant Director of Social Development at Dr Beyers Naudé District Municipality, Reagan Bosch, gave the audience information about the good work that Vuyane's personnel are doing. 

The haven, home to 35 children, is funded by the Directorate of Social Development.

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