Each of us need to be activists against GBV

THE WAR on women and children remains one of our biggest challenges.

As the curtain came down on Women’s Month yesterday, statistics of gender-based violence cases in the past few months reminded us that the battle is far from over. In fact, the brutal truth is that South Africa appears to be losing the war.

Besides the high number of GBV cases, it is a serious indictment on all men and the government that women feel unsafe not only in the streets, but also in their homes.

Tasleem Daffurn, a social worker and member of The South African Association of Social Workers in Private Practice, said stresses caused by the Covid-19 lockdown had exacerbated GBV: “Lack of finances, no access to support systems and added responsibilities can create inherent conflict within a couple.”

According to the South African Association of Social Workers, in the first week of lockdown, more than 87 000 GBV complaints were reported.

Daffurn rightfully points out that our society is steeped in patriarchy, and in many cultures and families, women are seen as being less than men.

“With couples spending more time together, and not being able to work or visit family and friends, it can put tremendous strain on a relationship,” says Daffurn. “This can bring to a head underlying issues that were already within the relationship.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has had to deal with escalating cases of GBV at a time when the country is facing the coronavirus pandemic. The daily reports of women being killed have prompted the government to investigate the underlying causes of GBV.

Our fear is that the urgency to keep GBV on top of the priority list may drop after Women’s Month. This should not be allowed to happen.

If anything, efforts to eradicate this social monster must be doubled with very clear messages to abusers. Lengthy jail terms that the president has pronounced on should remain.

Awareness campaigns must spread to every province, especially schools.

The unfortunate deaths of women that helped to jolt government into action should not be in vain. The onus is therefore on all of us to honour the memories of these women and children by being GBV activists.

It is the only way we can shake off the unwanted tag of being regarded as one of the worst countries for women to live in.