SADC PF urges action on violence against women

Moses Magadza, Herald Correspondent

SADC needs collective action to combat gender-based violence with SADC Parliamentary Forum secretary general, Ms Boemo Sekgoma, noting that besides being a violation of human rights, such violence thwarts gender equality and sustainable development.

Ms Sekgoma made the call in a statement yesterday as the world marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

“As we observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we stand united in our commitment to end all forms of violence against women and girls in the SADC and beyond,” she said.

The day also marked the beginning of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, “a time to not only reflect on the pervasive issue of violence but also to mobilise our collective efforts towards change”.

“It has far-reaching consequences that affect women’s access to sexual and reproductive health and rights services and commodities, as well as their bodily autonomy and integrity,” she said.

“The traumatic impacts of violence leave survivors vulnerable, often leading to increased health risks, inadequate access to critical sexual and reproductive health and rights services, and a devastating cycle of fear, stigma, and isolation.”

Ms Sekgoma also called for concerted efforts against violence targeting women and girls since it prevented them from realising their full potential, hampering their ability to contribute meaningfully to communities and societies.

She called on SADC parliaments to take decisive action by allocating funding for the implementation of laws and policies designed to combat the violence.

“It is imperative that we transform our commitments into concrete actions that safeguard the rights and well-being of women and girls,” she said. Ending violence against women was a collective responsibility of all sectors of society.

“Each one of us has a role to play in creating a world where all women and girls can thrive. We must foster an environment where respect, empathy, and active support replace silence and complicity,” she said.

SADC member states should domesticate the regional model law on gender-based violence, and to put in place effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track its implementation.

“We must stand together, shoulder to shoulder, advocating for a society where every woman and girl can live free from violence and fear.”

Ms Sekgoma challenged community leaders, policymakers, educators, and individuals to contribute to challenging and changing the norms that perpetuate violence against women.