Thusanang Advice Centre was established in 1995 in Qwaqwa, a former homeland, in response to the high levels of violence against women, specifically sexual violence. Qwaqwa was declared a presidential nodal area in 2000 due to the dire socio-economic challenges in the area.
Thusanang aims to contribute towards the reduction of high levels of gender based violence associated with poverty and HIV and AIDS through the application of human and women’s rights approaches and the promotion of social justice.
The target groups are women, young girls, men and boys from the surrounding villages of Mabolela, Thaba Bosiu, Thabana Tsoana and Tsheseng.
The changes that they would like to see include more effective service delivery provision by the relevant government departments and to set up a women’s forum that will apply pressure when there is poor service delivery.
The patriarchal nature of many of the traditional systems and practices in the area contributes to inequalities between men and women and reduce women’s
- sexual and reproductive rights
- right to education
- economic rights
- land rights
The centre recognizes the importance of involving tribal local authorities and churches in challenging gender inequalities, norms and stereotypes.
The role of men in achieving gender equity and equality has been identified as pertinent by the organisation.
Through a joint initiative with Sonke Gender Justice Network the 34 men have been trained as CATS, which has resulted in a decrease in violence in Lusaka the area where they were working.
A place of safety is managed by the Advice and Development Centre.
Thusanang aims to be a leading human rights organisation in our community, contributing towards the creation of a sound and viable environment in which all people’s rights are protected and respected, especially the vulnerable.
Director
NMJ Nhlapho
Thusanang Advice Centre
8955 Mamello Street
Phuthaditjhaba
Tel: 058 713 6074 or 0824959013
Fax: 058 713 6074
Email: tadvice@telkomsa.net
