28 February 2003

The Gauteng government is planning to establish a one-stop centre in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, to assist victims of abuse and violence.

The Ikhaya Lethemba (Home of hope) centre is expected to be opened during Women’s Month in August this year.

Announcing the establishment of the centre in Johannesburg this week, Gauteng MEC for Safety and Liaison, Nomvula Mokonyane, said the facility would assist victims of violence and sexual abuse in Johannesburg and surrounding areas.

"This is a very ambitious but realistic project that will offer sanctuary and other technical services to victims of domestic violence, rape, child abuse and neglect," said Mokonyane.

She added that the province’s partnership with various stakeholders had resulted in the establishment of 80 fully functional victim empowerment rooms and 42 non-functional rooms at various police stations throughout the province.

According to Mokonyane, the levels of awareness and education about sexual offences had increased, prompting people to report such crimes.

Mokonyane also announced the construction of new police stations in Diepsloot, Thokoza, Duduza, Tsakane, Mamelodi, Eersterust and Kagiso.

She said the recruitment of new police officials would continue for this financial year, and by February 2004 the province would have recruited about 2 034 new officers.

"We have also identified eight police stations that will be fully renovated in order to improve the level of service offered," she said.

Source: BuaNews

Human Rights Advice Line - 0860 120 120
(Office hours, Mon-Fri)
Or E-mail the SA Human Rights Commission

Unhappy with poor public service, or misconduct by a government official? Use myRights to find out about your basic rights, your right to good public service, the duties of public officials, what to do about poor public service, and how to lodge complaints.

Human Rights Advice Line 0860 120 120 (Office hours, Mon-Fri) Or E-mail the SA Human Rights Commission myRights - Unhappy with poor public service, or misconduct by a government official? Find out about your basic rights, your right to good public service - and what you can do if these are violated. Reader's Digest Family Guide to SA law - Find the answer to common legal problems such as how to get workers' compensation, buy & sell property, or deal with a crooked garage. SA Labour Guide - Guidelines for employers & employees, labour law, dispute resolution, advice, assistance & more. Aids Legal Network SA - Simplifies HIV/Aids and the law to inform and empower you about your rights.