NZHELELE -

The co-ordinators of the victim centre are Mr Madadzhe and Mrs R Seemola. Mrs Seemola told Mirror that the aim of the victim centre is to provide and co-ordinate services that render effective support systems and a supportive environment to victims of sexual and family violence. Another aim is to "actively encourage through education and empowerment an attitude of zero tolerance towards sexual abuse and family violence in the Siloam policing area".

Seemola told Mirror that the reason for starting a victim empowerment centre is the high rate of rape cases and domestic violence increasing in the area. According to her, there are students who help victims. These students have been trained as from January 2002. Furthermore, these students come from areas around Nzhelele in Raliphaswa, Mailula, Dzanani, Vuvha and Siloam. Social workers, psychologists and health personnel trained these students.

Seemola appeals to all trained people in other villages to contact her at 082 732 0351.

Members of the committee are Mr KS Phaswana (chairperson) and station commissioner, Miss E. Mathivha (CPF), Mrs T Daudzhi (vice chairperson), Adv Nemudzivhadi, Mr V Nevondo, Mrs MM Ramathavhana, Mr TE Dongola, Mrs R Ravele, Mr MN Neluvhola, Mr NP Netshia, and Mr Motau.

The committee includes police, health workers, traditional healers and religious leaders.