South Africa’s Staunch Stance: The 16-Day Crusade against Gender-Based Violence

Kick-Off of the 16-Day Crusade

Within the heartland of South Africa, the Nsikazi Stadium in Ehlanzeni, Mpumalanga, bore witness to an event of utmost significance. Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, accompanied by dignitaries, bureaucrats, and media professionals, unveiled the 16 Days of Activism against the Violence against Women and Children initiative. This yearly international mission begins on the 25th of November, marking the inception of an intensive campaign to eradicate violence and foster gender equilibrium.

This campaign, however, reflects more than an annual tradition. It stands as a resolute affirmation of the country’s unyielding commitment to putting a halt to any form of violence against women and children. This year is particularly notable, as it marks South Africa’s quarter-century of participation in the campaign. The focus this time is “Accelerating actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: leaving no one behind.”

This initiative provides a platform to raise awareness regarding the harsh effects of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) on the societal framework. It serves as a rallying cry, urging every individual to reaffirm their commitment towards establishing a society where women and children are secure and feel protected.

Campaign Highlights and Aims

As part of the initiative, the Department of Water and Sanitation focused on the critical issue of “Safe access to potable water for women: a fundamental human right”. The campaign underlines the link between water and violence against women and children, as women often face the threat of sexual abuse while trying to access clean water.

In addition, this year’s campaign acknowledges the entrenched roots of GBVF in patriarchal norms and gender bias. It addresses the harsh reality that GBV is a universally prevalent issue, deeply rooted in every society, culture, and community. On International Men’s Day, the Takuwani Riime Programme of Action was launched as a fresh initiative, urging men to face and tackle the gender-related issues pervasive in contemporary society.

The South African government has constantly shown its determination to address GBV, through the mechanism of legislative actions, policy modifications, and empowerment programs. Six new pieces of legislation have been enacted concerning GBVF, and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent approval of several legislative reforms marks another significant step in the battle against GBVF.

Government Measures and Future Goals

Furthermore, the government has been proactive in strengthening Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at provincial and local levels, formulating comprehensive GBVF prevention plans, and setting up a Gender-Based Violence Command Centre to offer round-the-clock assistance to survivors.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has also played a crucial role in fighting GBVF, with recent accomplishments including the identification of 27 sexual predators within the country and sentencing one person to a staggering 6,400 years in prison after being convicted of more than 1,000 charges of child pornography.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign is not merely about raising awareness or conducting events; it aims to bring about a profound shift in societal attitudes towards gender-based violence. It is about fostering a society where women and children are not just safe, but also respected and treated as equals.

Deputy President Mashatile urged men in society to guide young boys as role models and contribute to nurturing a society that respects women. He also called on traditional leaders to disavow cultural practices detrimental to women and children, such as child muthi killings, witchcraft burning, and ukuthwala.

In conclusion, the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign communicates a resounding message to all of South Africa and the world at large: the battle against gender-based violence demands a united effort and a mutual commitment. It is only through concerted teamwork, ensuring no one is left behind, that we can genuinely expedite actions to eradicate Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.