Durban:KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has urged women in the faith sector to leverage their influential positions within religious communities to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and foster safer environments for women and children.
According to South African Government News Agency, Ntuli made this appeal during the Women in Clergy Workshop in Durban on Friday, part of the province's continuous effort to tackle GBVF. This workshop is a component of the broader initiative to engage all societal sectors in addressing crimes that undermine women's dignity, disrupt families, and weaken social cohesion.
Inspired by the historical courage of women who marched against apartheid pass laws in 1956, the Premier encouraged women clergy to exhibit similar bravery and determination in addressing today's societal challenges facing women. He stated that when women unite to fight GBVF, such social issues can be eradicated, leading to peaceful communities.
The Premier highlighted the necessity of a collective response to eradicate GBVF, involving cooperation among government, law enforcement, traditional leaders, civil society, communities, and faith-based organizations. The workshop emphasized churches' roles in supporting survivors, promoting behavioral change, and challenging attitudes that perpetuate violence.
Delegates concurred that religious platforms should be used to advocate for justice, healing, and protection. Women in clergy committed to using their leadership to speak out against abuse and to create safe spaces for those affected by violence.
Discussions also stressed the importance of religious institutions in strengthening families, promoting moral renewal, and rebuilding communities impacted by violence. Ntuli reiterated the provincial government's dedication to collaborating with the faith sector and other partners to prioritize the fight against GBVF throughout the year.
The workshop reinforced the message that ending violence against women and children requires not only effective law enforcement but also leadership and accountability within homes, congregations, and communities.