Practical plans needed against gender-based violence

THE SHOCKING abuse cases that South Africans read on newspaper front pages recently regarding rape, spousal abuse and the murder of innocent women need to be strongly condemned.

These crimes against women require immediate committed action and interventions by government.

Sadly, over the years, societal outrage and calls for action to be taken by the government seems to be falling on deaf ears. South Africans are angry and frustrated about the lack of visible political determination to fight criminalities. Reading posts on social media confirms citizens’ feelings of desperation at violence, rape and crime.

South Africa, a country marked by high levels of rape, femicide, domestic violence and patriarchy-controlled households, needs well-thought-out, practical, workable and sustainable plans to manage and bring down the country’s disgraceful and shockingly high amount of gender-based violence.

Schools, universities, religious institutions, leaders of the different communities, ordinary people and government all need to address men’s labels or stereotypes about women’s sexuality. Without intervention, all forms of violence will not stop.

Other heart-breaking stories of violence will be published on a never-ending register of rape, murder, violence and cruelty. It is time to breathe new life into gender-based violence to combat the perpetuation of these crimes.

MOHAMED SAEED | Pietermaritzburg