This year South Africa marks 30 years of collective action under the theme '30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children'. While the 16 Days of Activism has brought awareness and some positive changes over the years, it is evident that systemic failures, performative campaigns and inadequate action have allowed GBV to persist at alarming rates, says the NPO. 

Afrika Tikkun says that this anniversary year presents a critical opportunity to recommit to bold, inclusive and transformative interventions.

Women and children with disabilities are GBV's overlooked victims despite the prevalence of violence against them, says the organisation. 

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has launched the first report on GBV which has revealed an alarming statistic: over 31% of women with disabilities in South Africa have endured sexual or physical violence in their lifetime. Compared to women with no disabilities, a higher proportion of ever-partnered women with a disability had experienced physical violence. The prevalence of sexual violence by a partner was twice as high for ever-partnered women living with a disability than for those who did not report a disability.  

The HSRC says that the high rates of violence against women, particularly those with disabilities, highlighted an urgent need for government, professionals and service providers to identify affected women and include them in prevention strategies. 

According to the organisation, this is the first instance of national data shedding light on the pervasive and deeply entrenched impact of GBV on women with disabilities.

"Disability inclusion must become a core focus in the fight against GBV," says Marc Lubner, Executive Chairperson, Afrika Tikkun. "Creating a disability-inclusive society is not just about access to physical spaces; it's about ensuring the safety, dignity and protection of the most vulnerable. This means creating inclusive policies that address the unique vulnerabilities of women and children with disabilities, empowering victims with accessible support services and fostering community leadership to dismantle rape culture." 

Despite 30 years of democracy, the gap between South Africa's progressive legal frameworks and the realities women and children face daily remains glaring. Leaders have yet to adopt a unified voice or implement meaningful changes to address the roots of GBV, says Afrika Tikkun.

As Afrika Tikkun celebrates its 30th year of service and a legacy of creating holistic development and sustainable impact, the organisation remains steadfast in advocating for a safer, more inclusive society where the rights and dignity of every woman and child are protected. The organisation says that it is tackling South Africa’s socio-economic disparities head-on and fostering an equitable society.

"The communities we serve are characterised by high levels of gender-based violence (GBV), in part due to the legacy of apartheid. GBV impacts the ability of young girls and women in our programmes to make the most of learning, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. We believe it is never too early to start educating our young people on gender equality and GBV-related issues," says Tiyani Mohlaba, COO, Afrika Tikkun. 

The organisation says that it has implemented the Anti-Violence Buddies (four to six years) where Early Childhood Development learners are taught about abuse in an age-appropriate manner. In addition, in the Young Urban Women (YUW) programme, young girls are given a platform to discuss issues affecting them, including GBV, women's health and economic empowerment. Parallel to this, The Young Urban Men (YUM) programme was established to provide a space for positive role modelling in conjunction with activities and campaigns related to the issues young men face.

"We must invest in targeted educational campaigns to challenge harmful attitudes and promote equality from an early age. Anything less is a disservice to the progress we aim to achieve," concludes Mohlaba.

For more information, visit www.afrikatikkun.org. You can also follow Afrika Tikkun on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor