The theme for this year is “30 years of advancing collective action to end violence against women and children”. The campaign’s main goals are to address the underlying causes of GBVF, encourage positive masculinity, advance gender equality, and provide women and children with economic possibilities.

The deputy minister of tourism, Maggie Sotyu, called on the community of Rouxville to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) at the stakeholder engagement she hosted at the Roleleathunya Community Hall on Saturday (23/11).

“The department has a vested interest in making sure that as we grow the sector women and youth also have the opportunity for economic empowerment,” said the spokesperson of the department of tourism, Tasneem Carrim.

“The community engagement hosted by the minister included a pledge towards zero tolerance against the abuse of women and children, a sanitary dignity project was initiated for the community, and information was provided on capacity-building programmes for women and youth.”

Our department wants it to be known that we all have a role in making sure that we fight against GBVF, we have a role as individuals, as members of families, and as communities, she said.

People can be activists for GBVF:

• by reporting and not protecting abusers;

• being sensitive and supportive of GBVF victims;

• protecting children from exposure to violence and harmful content;

• signing the pledge against GBV; and

• developing policies that prevent and deal with GBV in communities and workplaces.

Acting Free State Premier Jabu Mbalula officially launched the 16 Days of Activism against the abuse of women and children on Friday (22/11) at Bergman Square in Bloemfontein.

“GBV continues to threaten the well-being and dignity of our sisters, mothers, and daughters. Women are being killed, raped, and abused in their homes, on the streets, and even in places that should otherwise be their sanctuary.”

This is not just a problem for women, it is a national crisis, Mbalula said. He called on communities to join hands with the police to root out the scourge and also called for programmes to help teachers identify signs of abuse in children to provide the necessary support.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg