Call for Year-Round Action Against Gender-Based Violence
Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasized that the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide requires a sustained effort throughout the year, rather than being limited to the traditional 16-day campaign.
Delivering the keynote address during the launch of the national 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign in Rustenburg, Mashatile highlighted the need for society to unite in addressing this pervasive issue.
The 16 Days of Activism initiative aims to mobilize various sectors of society to work collaboratively in tackling the crisis of GBV and femicide while encouraging individuals to confront and dismantle harmful attitudes and stereotypes.
Addressing Teen Pregnancies and Moral Decay
Mashatile pointed to rising teen pregnancies as a troubling indicator of declining moral standards. He stated, “Child pregnancies do not occur in isolation; they stem from entrenched socio-economic, cultural, and educational challenges. Many are linked to rape and sexual abuse, reflecting deep moral failures in our society.” He urged the public to report such offenders and push for stricter penalties, emphasizing that collective action is crucial in combating GBV.
Prevention Over Reaction
He asserted that merely reacting to instances of violence is insufficient; efforts must be directed toward prevention. “There must be zero tolerance for violence in both physical and digital realms. The digital economy has opened new avenues for abuse, including cyberbullying and online harassment, and we must address these dangers proactively,” he stated.
Women’s Financial Dependence and Abuse
Sindisiwe Chikunga, the Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, shared insights into the struggles many women face in abusive relationships due to financial dependencies on their partners, who often serve as the primary breadwinners.
The annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign runs from November 25 to December 10, in alignment with the United Nations’ global initiative to end violence against women and children.
Local Advocacy and Community Action
In Gqeberha, the Democratic Alliance (DA) organized a protest rally to support Enough Now, a local non-profit dedicated to combating GBV. The DA is advocating for the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality, led by the African National Congress (ANC), to expedite the establishment of a victim support center.
Nomvano Zibonda, Chairperson of the Provincial DA Women’s Network, stressed the need for ongoing attention to the GBV crisis. She stated, “Our protest at the Nelson Mandela Ward 11 office launches the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. Supporting Enough Now, we demand that the municipality prioritize the establishment of a victim support center.” She called for a year-round commitment to ending GBV in the province, underscoring the urgency of action.
