UN Women South Africa Regional Office, in collaboration with Women in Finance (Business Engage), a woman business network entity, managed to raise $13,400 for the Kilimanjaro Climb initiative, scheduled for March 2012, at a fundraising dinner event attended by over 200 guests from government, UN agencies, Business CEOs, private sector, media and individuals.

Parlotones www.theparlotones.net a famous South Africa music band with double platinum status, global and national multi awards and nominees for best band and best selling CD, gave a free live performance  and promoted the message of the UNiTE Campaign to take a stand to end violence against women and girls.  The band dedicated one of CD Track “Should We Fight Back” to UN Women to highlight issues of ending violence against women and girls.   

The key note address from the  Ministry of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities reiterated on the need for tougher laws and programs from government to be implemented that can contribute to ending violence against women and girls in South Africa. 

Sindiswa, a 16 year old girl previously abused and presently living in a Shelter delivered a touching poem “I am a Woman” which advocates for ending abuse and violence against women and girls. New Life Centre is a Shelter for girls who are involved in commercial sexual exploitation and those who are used by adults to commit crime.  It assists with the withdrawal and rehabilitation of children from exploitative abusive environments. 

It is estimated that there are between 2500 and 5000 women and girls living in Hilbrow area, Johanneburg who are sexually exploited, sold as sex slaves or are using prostitution as a form on income because no other option exists. Her performance inspired one of the guests Jodell C de-Sousa, CEO from private sector, to pledge to dedicate her birthday  on 18 December to raise funds for the abused girls at New Life Centre.  All gifts and donations will be provided as donation to the Shelter and funds will be collected through UN Women SARO.