​Last week, Tuesday, 03 December 2024, Itereleng Residential Care Facility for the Blind hosted a 16 Days of Activism event that included prayer and singing to raise awareness about gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Social Worker Bridget Baloi from Youth for Survival, a Gauteng Department of Social Development-funded NPO, urged residents to report GBVF to authorities to help put an end to the violence. “GBVF affects many of us, and women often suffer the most, protecting their families and providers,” Baloi noted. She highlighted the One Stop shelter, which offers 24-hour skills development programs for victims, empowering them to break the cycle of abuse.

Pastor Kea Masoba, Head of Garankuwa Reabilwe Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) addressed harmful ideas surrounding masculinity and femininity that contribute to GBVF. “Concepts of male control, sexual entitlement, and antisocial behavior promote gender inequality, while women’s subjugation often perpetuates violence,” Masoba stated. She also pointed out that poverty and limited education contribute to economic dependency and diminished agency in relationships”.

Masoba cited scripture to emphasize the importance of protecting the vulnerable: “God’s Word shows special concern for the oppressed and victimized” (Exodus 22:22-24, Revelation 21:4, Micah 4:4).

The 16 Days of Activism, running from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day), calls for an end to violence against women and children. This year’s theme, “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” focuses on addressing the root causes of GBVF, promoting positive masculinity, fostering gender equality, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.