16 Days of Activism to focus on prevention: ‘Violence is never the answer'

After President Cyril Ramaphosa classified gender-based violence (GBV) as a national disaster, 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children focuses on prevention rather than response. 

RELATED: Govt officially classifies gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster

Speaking to 702’s Ray White, Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga says this year’s approach is different.

The campaign now targets media professionals, filmmakers, and storytellers to help reshape social norms.

She adds that it will require collaboration from all sectors to fight GBV.

“It is something that happens in houses that are closed, nobody can see, and therefore what becomes critical is how we make men aware of the fact that whether it is in the house or on the road, gender-based violence is never an answer to any problem." 

In addition to highlighting social issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, the department will focus on the socialisation of young boys, says Chikunga.  

She expressed concern about the increasing number of boys under the age of 16 being arrested for crimes like rape.

“It starts with the socialisation of our boy child, teaching them that they can use their power to do anything. It is the positive masculinity that will be our focus.”

To listen to Chikunga in conversation with 702’s Ray White, click below: