Profile of Victims of Rape in the Transkei Sub-Region of South Africa (2006-2014)

Abstract

Background: Rape of a women is a serious public health problem in South Africa. It is a complex issue,
but it become more complex when raped either elderly women or a baby. Objective: To study the profile of
victimsof rape in the Transkei sub-region of South Africa (2006-2014).
Method: This is retrospective descriptive study over a period of 16 years (2006-2014), carried out at Sinawe
Thuthuzela Center (STC), Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Results: Between 2006 and 2014, 6699 cases of rape were recorded in the register of Sinawe-Thuthuzela
Center. Of this, 3208 (47.88%) were children of the age of 16 and below. Majority 3048 (45.5%) of rape were
outside of their home. Victim was known in 3418 (51%) of cases. Only 1064 (15.9%) sustained physical
injury. Alcohol has contributed in 56.2% cases. Delayed (>72 hrs) reporting to STC were 2052 (30.6%). HIV
positive were found 1180 (17.6%) victims at the time of reporting to center.
Conclusion:There is a high number of rape in the Transkei sub-region of South Africa. About half of them
were children under the age of 16 years. It needs urgent attention.