EMIHLE MBANGATHA
Motivated by his martial arts background, 44-year-old self-published author Lubabalo Mapuko from Hanuva Village, Qonce, has written a self-defence book titled How to Defend Yourself Against Rape.
The book serves as a detailed self-defence guide, covering more than 215 real-life scenarios with more than 2,000 step-by-step visuals. Mapuko, who has trained in karate and Israeli military self-defence techniques, hopes the book will empower individuals, particularly in rural areas, to protect themselves.
“SA has one of the highest rape rates in the world. This book was inspired by my martial arts background and the realisation that self-defence can help people fight back in life-threatening situations,” he said.
“This book provides a complete self-defence course. With more than 30 chapters, it covers everything from defensive techniques to managing fear in an attack situation.”
The book includes real-life success stories, such as that of a 13-year-old girl who defended herself against her stepfather’s abuse, demonstrating how understanding human anatomy and pressure points can be lifesaving.
Another critical section deals with overcoming fear and freezing, which are common reactions.
Mapuko practised the self-defence techniques with teenagers, including Phiwe Dlangamandla, a black belt in karate from Queenstown Girls’ High, and Buko Ndwalaza from Queens College High School, who acted as an attacker.
“We did a full photo shoot demonstrating each move.”
While Mapuko believes self-defence can help reduce vulnerability, not everyone agrees.
Masimanyane Women’s Rights International founder and director Dr Lesley Ann Foster argues that rape prevention should not be a woman’s responsibility.
“Most rapes occur within households and are committed by someone the victim knows. You can’t prevent that with self-defence.”
Foster strongly opposes placing the burden on women, calling on men to be accountable. “Teaching women to prevent rape implies that if they fail to do so, they are to blame. That’s unacceptable. Men need to be taught to respect women’s bodies — rape is a male issue.”
While self-defence may not solve gender-based violence, Mapuko hopes his book can provide practical tools for those in danger.
The book is not yet published, but once it is, Mapuko will share the release date on Facebook.
