Africa Travel WeekFemicide in South Africa is five times the global average. Between 25% and 40% of South African women have experienced sexual and/or physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner. Between 12% and 28% of women will report being raped in their lifetime, and this number excludes those who will be raped and choose not to approach the authorities. In short, gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious issue in South Africa, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to put an end to it.
Uthando, an award-winning Fair Trade in Tourism certified non-profit organisation, is stepping up to do exactly that.
Uthando supports Philisa Abafazi Bethu and the Nonceba Family Counselling Centre to help reduce the surge in GBV and provide holistic care and support to GBV victims.
“Our Centre has been blessed over the years with truly wonderful and caring people who have become an integral part of our existence and in their involvement, have allowed us to perform the amazing services we provide in and for the community of Khayelitsha. One of the outstanding friends of the Centre is Uthando South Africa,” comments Nonceba Family Counselling Centre’s Jeffrey Kaimowitz.
“We are the beneficiaries of a truly generous donation [from the organisation]. On behalf of all involved in our special Centre, we thank you most, most sincerely for choosing us.”
How you can assist
Everyone can make a difference when it comes to eliminating GBV. The most important step to take is to educate yourself regarding the issue. Firstly, know how to prevent GBV from happening to you, and which warning signs to watch out for that could indicate you might be at risk. Next, know which warning signs to watch out for in those around you who might be falling victim to GBV in some shape or form and in need of help – despite not knowing how to ask for it!
Once you’ve educated yourself, do your part to educate those around you. Chat to friends, relatives, and colleagues about the issue and use social media to bring awareness to the situation.
It’s also a wonderful idea to donate your time and/or resources to initiatives dedicated to stopping GBV or assisting those impacted by it.
Ultimately, your time, your passion, and your voice are the most valuable assets you can bring to the fight against GBV in South Africa.
