Each year, millions of people slip through the cracks of society and find themselves victims of human trafficking. This is why we at the Newcastillian have been publishing numerous articles on the topic, as there is a major need for people to be conscious of this dark world which lives around us.
The International Labour Organisation estimates that there are approximately 40.3 million people trafficked each year. Out of this figure, only 50 to 100 000 cases are found annually. The University of Johannesburg reports that the trafficking of girls is significantly higher than that of boys.
According to the University of Johannesburg, females make up 55.5% of all people trafficked people in South Africa, while males only make up 44.5% of trafficked people. Furthermore, it is estimated that more than three-quarters of all the victims are between the ages of 12 and 25.
Why are South Africans being trafficked?
South African girls are being trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation and domestic servitude, while males are being targeted for street vending, foodservice and agriculture.
With scores of people being affected by human trafficking, there are those who are combatting the trade in humans.
The National Freedom Network (NFN) is a group of people and organisations in different places around South Africa, who work together against human trafficking.
Operations Manager, Marina Reyneke explains, “We work to connect and interact with one another to exchange information, share resources and best practices, and develop professional contacts in the counter-human trafficking field.”
While the NFN core team is small, Reyneke says the Network itself spans the country and has representation through its individual and organisational partners in all nine provinces, as well as inter-disciplinary representation across most services and sectors involved in counter-trafficking work.
“It is in these Partnerships that our strength lies and through them that the work can be effective and full of impact.”
Officially launched in 2009, the NFN has grown substantially and has proven to become a formidable force.
Reyneke explains the NFN’s mission is to serve the network through empowering, equipping and encouraging Network partners. “We do this primarily by being a point of connection, a channel of communication and a network of collaboration for the counter-human trafficking community.”
Another function of the NFN is to create public awareness. Reyneke explains two misconceptions found among the South African population is that trafficking does not happen here and trafficking only entails sexual exploitation.
By getting the word out, the NFN hopes to enlighten the hardships which modern-day slaves face in South Africa.
Dedicated to making a positive impact, the NFN works with several organisations which include:
Operation Bobbi Bear, a human rights organisation committed to helping sexually abused children in Amanzimtoti, KZN.
Cornerstone Anti Human Trafficking Institute, a non-profit organisation which combats modern-day slavery and human trafficking through training, networking and raising awareness.
Liberation Legal Consultation, which is owned by Newcastle born, Liechen Strydom, an admitted advocate in the High Court of South Africa.
Networking with several other organisations, focusing on counter-human trafficking initiatives, Reyneke explains in addition to the consistent networking which takes place, the NFN has had major successes over the years, thanks to the partnerships, as well as the generosity of donors and sponsors.
While she explains the NFN feels privileged to be able to support and equip others, including its member organisations and some of the survivors, the organisation does face certain challenges.
The NFN does face certain financial difficulties due to the running costs of the organisation.
If anyone wants to support the NFN and contribute to saving victims from human trafficking, they can visit the National Freedom Network’s website for more information on how to assist plus gain more information on the organisation.
