LAUNCH OF A JOINT INTERFAITH GBV PREVENTION AND MITIGATION STRATEGY

• The launch of the Interfaith GBV Prevention and Mitigation Strategy marks a critical step in combating gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa, where GBV rates remain alarmingly high.
• Led by the Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letseke, this initiative brings together faith-based organisations to challenge harmful cultural and religious norms that contribute to GBV.
• The strategy aims to equip faith leaders with tools to promote safe, inclusive communities, fostering collaboration between faith groups and government to address GBV’s root causes and provide support for survivors.

In a significant step towards tackling the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa, Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letseke, will launch the Interfaith GBV Prevention and Mitigation Strategy today. The event, held at the Baha’i National Centre in North Riding, Johannesburg, brings together a coalition of faith leaders and organisations dedicated to creating safe spaces and promoting healing within their communities.

The Interfaith GBV Prevention and Mitigation Strategy is a collaborative effort involving The Faith Action to End GBV Collective and We Will Speak Out South Africa (WWSOSA). This initiative seeks to challenge and transform harmful social, cultural, and religious norms that perpetuate violence against women, youth, and marginalised groups. By mobilising faith-based communities, the strategy envisions a society free from gender-based violence and femicide, highlighting the crucial role faith leaders play in driving this transformation.

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue in South Africa, which has one of the highest rates of GBV in the world. According to recent statistics, a woman is killed every three hours in South Africa, while countless others endure various forms of violence and abuse. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this crisis, with reports of increased domestic violence during lockdowns. As the nation grapples with these alarming figures, the need for comprehensive and collaborative responses has become increasingly urgent.

The launch of the Interfaith Strategy acknowledges the influence of faith communities in shaping societal values and norms. Faith leaders are often at the forefront of community engagement and hold the power to significantly influence attitudes towards GBV. The strategy aims to equip these leaders with the tools and resources necessary to effectively address GBV within their congregations and communities.

The Interfaith GBV Prevention and Mitigation Strategy presents a clear vision for an inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of gender or background, can live free from fear and violence. The initiative includes training programmes for faith leaders, community outreach efforts, and the establishment of support networks for survivors of GBV.

As South Africa continues to confront the challenges posed by GBV, the collaborative efforts of faith-based organisations and government bodies offer a hopeful path towards meaningful change. Tomorrow’s launch marks a significant milestone in this ongoing struggle and represents a collective commitment to fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and peace.