16 Days of Activism to end Violence against Women and Children

November 2012

For 16 Days of Activism 2012, Women on Farms Project is focusing on the link between violence against women and women’s insecure tenure security and lack of access to productive land. Despite a high incidence of violence against women(VAW)on farms, the dire shortage of shelters for abused women and children in rural areas, and access to housing mediated through a male worker, many women farm workers are often forced to remain in abusive relationships because they are dependent on a man for a roof over their heads.

WFP will host a public event in De Doorns for 300 women farm workers from across the Cape Winelands District Municipality. As a celebration of World AIDS Day, the programme will include drama, an HIV-testing station, and women’s testimonies of VAW and tenure insecurity.

As the epicentre of the historic farm worker strikes, the programme will also provide women with a “safe space” to reflect on their experiences during the strike, and formulate women-specific demands for negotiations with government and farmers.

A candle lighting ceremony at the conclusion will celebrate the strength of women: those who have both survived and died as a result of VAW, as well as those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

WFP would be honoured if you would join us for our event:

DATE                    Sunday, 2 December 2012

VENUE       Multi Purpose Centre, De Doorns

TIME           14.00 - 17.00

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

Sharon Messina:  021-887 2960 / 072  756 9677

Carmen Louw:      021-887 2960 / 083 655 6982