Following the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which takes place annually between 25 November and 10 December, ISUZU Motors South Africa is utilising its resources and making strides to lend a helping hand to those most vulnerable - women and children.
"At ISUZU, we recognise gender-based violence and violence against children to be a societal crisis. It is our duty as a responsible corporate citizen to do what we can in lending a hand to support those most affected and to drive awareness amongst our employees in the hope that they support changing the narrative in the communities where they live," says ISUZU Department Executive for Corporate and Public Affairs, Lebogang Makoloi
The latest crime statistics released by the South African Police Services indicate that between January to March 2023, there was a 29% rise in attempted murders against children compared to the same three-month period last year. In her outrage to the level of violence against children in the latest crime statistics, UNICEF South Africa Deputy Representative, Muriel Mafico said violent deaths of 245 children and the physical and emotional impact of violence on a further 2,291 children are tragic reminders of the seriousness of this issue. The statistics also reveal a shocking rise in violence against women, with 969 murders and 1,485 attempted murders recorded over this period.
These are horrific numbers by any standard and it should raise significant concern about the war that is continuously being waged against women and children in South Africa.
ISUZU is supporting two homes, Yokhuselo Haven in Gqeberha and Bethany Home for Abused Women and Children in Johannesburg. These homes are safe havens which provide protection and counselling for abused women and children. They also offer skills training in sewing, computer literacy and baking which will assist the women in finding a job to earn an income to support their families. The latter shelter looks after abused women aged 20 to 40 years and their children.
Their needs are great as the abused women often arrive with just the clothes on their back and ISUZU has collected items such as, toiletries, clothing, shoes, bedding, colouring books, and nappies for children. The two homes will also share an amount of R100 000 donated by ISUZU to assist them in their operations.
"Part of ISUZU’s efforts is also to drive education and awareness with our workforce about the company’s zero tolerance towards all forms of abuse, workplace violence and bullying to ensure we create a safe work environment for all."
"It is important for our employees to understand what abuse entails, which is a pattern of controlling behaviour of one person over another and encompasses financial, physical, sexual, psychological and verbal abuse. They are encouraged to report this behaviour via the correct channels and hotlines," says Makoloi.
For media queries and interview requests please contact:
Asanda Fongqo, External Communications, Stakeholder Relations and PR Coordinator
Contact details: +27 64 863 2644 | asanda.fongqo@isuzu.co.za
Sharne’ Woods, Corporate Communications Manager
Phone: +27 76 785 5090 | sharne.woods@isuzu.co.za
About Isuzu Motors South Africa
Isuzu Motors South Africa is a wholly owned subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited of Japan. Isuzu has had a presence in South Africa since 1964, when the first commercial vehicles entered the market, which was soon followed by the introduction of light commercial vehicles in 1972. The brand's popularity grew and resulted in local production of light commercial vehicles in 1978. Today, Isuzu remains one of South Africa’s leading commercial vehicle brands and has become renowned for its durability and reliability. For more information on Isuzu products visit www.isuzu.co.za
