Rustenburg: Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has emphasized the necessity of addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) through a multifaceted approach. This approach includes providing support services for survivors and ensuring accountability for perpetrators. Chikunga made these remarks at the National Launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, held at the Rustenburg Civic Centre, North West, on Monday.

According to South African Government News Agency, this year’s campaign is themed “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children”. The theme aims to build on past efforts to address the root causes of GBVF by promoting positive masculinity, gender equity, and economic empowerment for women and children. The sub-theme focuses on “Harnessing technology and innovation to combat Gender-Based Violence and accelerate a gender inclu
sive digital economy”.

This year marks significant milestones: 70 years since the Women’s Charter adoption in 1954, 68 years since the Women’s March, and nearly 50 years since the first UN World Conference on Women in Mexico City in 1975. Additionally, it marks 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action aimed at eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls.

Chikunga outlined that the multifaceted approach includes legal reforms, educational programs, economic empowerment initiatives, and community-based interventions. The 16 Days of Activism campaign aims to mobilize society to reflect, prevent, and end the systemic, structural, household, and individual channels through which violence against women is perpetuated.

The Minister praised the dedication of traditional leaders, especially in rural areas, in combating GBVF. This commendation follows a meeting between her department and the House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders. She also highlighted successful consultations wi
th the South African Council of Churches, aimed at engaging the religious community in the fight against gender-based violence.

Chikunga referenced the South African National Gender-Based Violence Prevalence Study, conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council, which reveals that approximately 7.31 million women, aged 18 and older, have experienced physical violence in their lifetime. As the government adjusts policies and strategies, she stressed the importance of recognizing GBVF within the historical struggle for women’s recognition as human.

The Minister also addressed the impact of substance abuse on GBVF and announced plans to prioritize land transfer to women over the next five years, underscoring land as a productive asset and the foundation of wealth. She called for political will, adequate resources, and sustained commitment to drive meaningful change, advocating for increased investment in critical interventions.