“The violence on Women in South-Africa is a real disaster” mama Darlina says,” we have to put a stop to it because for women it is no longer bearable”.

The 7th of December I join an action during the 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM EVENT, 16 days against domestic violence and rape of women. Some 60 women take part in this women action against domestic violence in Kalk Fontein in Kuilsriver, a township in Cape Town. In silence and dressed in black, their mouths tied up with a black belt, their banners scream why they step into the streets: “ it is not our fault - break the silence - real men don’t rape – stop domestic violence - we will not be silenced”

In the district the march does not go by unnoticed. In the closing speech the participants demand that the policeforce will take at last their complaints seriously and will take action against bodily harm and rape. Then the women start to sing their demands while dancing in a circle on the square. “And now we will go to the policestation to hand over our demands” says mum Darlina. “They promised us to be here to accept them, but they are not here. If the mountain doesn’t come to us, we must go to the mountain”.

These brave, strong women step into the streets in their township, against violence on women of which they are victims everyday. I am deeply impressed by their militancy and hope that the Ceremonial Offering and Christmas will bring more peace this year.

Lieve Snellings