In the 21st century, Africa is poised to transform into a dynamic global hub that could constitute a powerhouse for the next industrial revolution. Nevertheless, there are still gaping distances in social disparities which disempower women and expose them to violence in various forms. According to the World Bank Group, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) affects at least 1 in 3 women over the course of a lifetime and GBV can negatively influence the GDP of countries. On its promising way towards progress, Africa cannot miss its coveted developmental targets due to GBV posing as an obstacle for women to be fully emancipated.
In this respect, the Forum has consistently advocated for the progressive empowerment of women at all levels in view of eliminating patriarchal gender stereotypes and demystifying deep-seated taboos for women to be considered at par with men, especially in decision-making positions where they can make a difference. Furthermore, the SADC-PF is also in the process of adopting domestication strategies for the implementation of the SADC Model Law on GBV which is a landmark tool that demonstrates the legal, budgeting and administrative avenues available to reinforce the protection of women. The Forum recognises that violence against women, in any form, is brutish, unacceptable and incongruent with the contemporary social fabric and the aspirations of a modern society.
In this vein, the SADC-PF associates itself fully with the UNiTE campaign (25 November to 10th December 2023) which is focused on the need for Governments to invest to prevent violence against women and young girls. Consistent investments are indeed necessary for GBV to be eliminated by 2030 in line with the Sustainable Development Agenda. Parliamentarians are therefore called upon to profusely act to legislate in favour of women protection and to hold Governments to account on the need for sustainability in anti-GBV measures that are responsive to the domestic context. Moreover, Parliamentarians are encouraged to act as thought leaders and advocates in representing the needs of communities and ensuring that anti-GBV campaigns are disseminated in languages and settings which are most conducive and relatable to citizens.
The 16 days of activism against GBV also ends with the Human Rights Day on the 10th December. While GBV is also considered as a human rights violation, the Human Rights Day in 2023 will commemorate 75 years of the existence of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which is the fundamental text that guarantees equality, human freedoms and justice for all without discrimination.
Accordingly, there cannot be a better occasion for the Forum and partners to gather the kinetic energy to undergird and spearhead strategies in ending GBV and its root causes in Southern Africa.
Yours sincerely,
Ms B. Sekgoma,
Secretary General, SADC-PF
