GENDER-BASED violence (GBV) activist in desperate need of help.
The 27-year-old activist is urgently appealing for public support following a rape that left her with lasting physical injuries and ongoing medical needs.
Bella Mamaile, a dedicated advocate for GBV survivors from Sekhukhune, Limpopo, is asking for donations of adult diapers as well as financial assistance while she recovers from the traumatic incident.
The attack has severely affected her bladder function, a condition that now requires her to use diapers daily, significantly impacting her financial and emotional well-being.
The assault took place on 12 November 2023 after Bella hosted a youth training workshop in Riverside. She then looked for a taxi to the taxi rank when the meeting ended.
"I was on the main road at around 6pm when an Avanza stopped. These vehicles are commonly used as taxis in the area, so I got in," she said.
The driver identified himself as "Thabo," and Bella paid R60 for the trip from Riverside to Tshehlwaneng, informing the driver of her destination.
"He drove all the way without any conversation. We never spoke about something that could lead us to such an incident. I was surprised why he did this immoral act," she said.
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However, shortly after passing Moretsele Village, the driver veered off the route.
"He parked alongside the road when we approached Tshehlwaneng just after passing Moretsele Village. That's when he took out a gun, pointed it at my forehead and instructed me to remove my clothes," said Bella Mamaile.
The assault continued for about three hours, with the perpetrator eventually abandoning her in an isolated area.
Injured and in shock, she managed to crawl to the roadside and flag down a passing taxi driver, who helped her return home after hearing her story.
The trauma and injuries have deeply impacted her daily life. As a person living with a disability, Bella now faces additional physical challenges and financial strain.
"I never thought something like this would happen to me. I feel powerless, not only because of the assault, but because I now struggle with basic things like mobility and dignity. Adult diapers aren't optional for me. They're a necessity," she said.
The alleged perpetrator was initially released after 48 hours in custody following his first detention in December 2023, with authorities citing pending DNA results as justification.
The case is now moving through the courts, though authorities have not explained the lengthy delay in making an arrest.
Anyone who wishes to help Bella can contact Daily Sun.
