Ms Connie Zikalala  MP

Madam Speaker,

From 25 November to 10 December 2007, our country will again participate in the international 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Child Abuse Campaign. We have done so over the past few years to highlight that abuse against women and children are ongoing and remain one of the scourges of our society. 

Regrettably, it is mostly men that are responsible for women and child abuse and one of the main aims of the campaign is to raise awareness among men that their behaviour is unacceptable. 

The IFP is therefore very happy to note that this year's campaign will include a Million Man March around the country with the main march happening in Bloemfontein. This sends out a very strong signal that men are prepared to stand up for women's and children's right to not be abused and to live in dignity without fear. 

It also shows very clearly that abuse is not just a gender issue, but is a social issue that must be tackled on multiple fronts, including the participation of men. 

The IFP therefore calls on the men of South Africa to join the marches in large numbers and to show your opposition to women and child abuse and to support women in their struggle for a life free of fear. 

Thank you.