Johannesburg: As South Africa observes the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, Dr Bongi Owusu, the Director of the Department of Social Development, has called for unity and action in tackling the country’s severe gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) crisis. The alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for a collective response to what President Cyril Ramaphosa has termed South Africa’s ‘second pandemic.’
According to South African Government News Agency, Owusu, who also serves as the Director of Gender and Women Empowerment, emphasized that President Ramaphosa’s description of GBV during the COVID-19 outbreak highlighted the gravity of this national crisis. She urged all sectors of society to unite in eradicating the scourge of GBV, which transcends gender, sexual orientation, and social status.
Owusu stressed the importance of true solidarity in the fight against GBV, involving men, women, children, and marginalized communities. She called for dismantling ha
rmful gender stereotypes that perpetuate violence and marginalization, noting that in many communities, women’s voices are still dismissed because of their gender.
While acknowledging that women remain the primary victims of GBV, Owusu advocated for an inclusive approach that recognizes violence is not confined to one gender. She emphasized the need for comprehensive interventions that reflect the diverse experiences of GBV, acknowledging that there are women perpetrators and male survivors.
A critical aspect of combating GBV, according to Owusu, is dismantling toxic masculinity. She highlighted how societal norms that discourage men from expressing vulnerability can lead to harmful behaviors. Encouraging men to express their emotions can break cycles of violence and foster healthier relationships.
The statistics from the South African Police Service are sobering, with over 120 women raped daily between April and June 2023, and a woman murdered every three hours. These figures serve as grim reminders that
the majority of GBV victims are women and children.
Owusu highlighted the importance of engaging men as allies, challenging the narrative that all men are perpetrators, and encouraging them to take a stand against GBV. She also underscored the role of community leaders, including religious and traditional figures, in shaping societal norms and challenging harmful ideologies.
The fight against GBV requires courage, collaboration, and a commitment to challenging harmful norms. Owusu’s plea is for a collective commitment to eradicating GBV, beginning in homes, workplaces, and communities. By fostering partnerships across gender, faith, and cultural lines, South Africa can work towards becoming a society where no one suffers in silence, and everyone is empowered to thrive.