Gender-related crimes

Prayline van Wyk

I believe that when your boyfriend slaps or threatens you for the first time, you should walk out of the relationship at once. Don’t go back to someone who hurts you; not even because you have a child with that person.

Bernice Skrywer

Women should know their worth and dress appropriately, so that they do not provoke men. They should be aware of what they wear and not cause a man’s imagination to run away with him.

Lezelle van Wyk

I think woman should be alert about their surroundings at all times. If any danger lurks, then they will be able to see the signs and make the right decision immediately. They should not be afraid to ask for help.

Mupangure Kazapua

The country should change its rape and murder laws. There should be stricter sentences for these crimes. Criminals should be jailed without parole, so an example can be set for others not to do the same.

Esperanca Kapitango

We tend to forget that men also need support; thus I suggest that more clubs should be created, where men can deal with anger management issues and the abuse they may have experienced. Most importantly, learn to respect women.

Pioné van Rooyen

Starting a young girls’ club, where they can organise initiatives to stand up against this type of abuse, is vital. We should not live in fear, but rather show men that we are not afraid.

Saskya Smith

I personally believe that all women should go for self-defence training, so they will know what to do in the event that they end up in dangerous situations. We need to be able to protect ourselves at all times.

Petronel Havenga

If you feel unsafe in a relationship, be sure to alert someone about it. You were create to be loved unconditionally and cherished, not abused. Always be alert and don’t get blindsided by love.

Quawa Katjangua

We need to educate men on the consequences of their actions. They need to understand that we are just as capable as them and deserve the basic human right of safety and security. No woman should live in fear.

Gretchen Katjipii

Community meetings should be organised to discuss this matter and come up with measures to keep woman and children safe. And if men still continue at this rate, then lifelong prison sentences should be the order of the day.

Ukarapo Makari

Discussing their challenges and problems will be beneficial for men and women. Groups should be created where they can talk openly about their problems, so they can overcome them and not take it out on women or young girls.

Rosa Veldskoendraer

I feel we need to stand together as a community. A peaceful march should be organised, where both men and women can show their support. We, as women, need to respect each other, so that men will also respect us.