04 Oct 2020

Efforts to embark on a gender based violence sponsored walk hit a snag due to lack of communication with some relevant authorities.

The walk  was aimed at raising awareness about gender based violence and was to commence from Maun to Shakawe on Independence Day. Organiser and main walker, Mr Oletile Manuwel, had partnered with Shelter Botswana, a home based care organisation for vulnerable children.

Part of proceeds from the walk were to be donated to the organisation in support of children. In an interview, the Maun-based artist, Mr Manuwel, expressed frustration noting that he thought everything was in place only to be told last minute that some relevant authorities such as police and office of the district commissioner were not notified about the activity.

He explained that the police demanded an approval letter from the DCs office and it was impossible to request it since officers had gone for holidays. 

As such, he said he decided to postpone the activity until further notice. Mr Manuwel was optimistic that the activity would be a success, noting that gender based violence was a national crisis that needed all to act. 

He explained that he came up with the initiative because he was touched by escalating incidents of ‘passion killings’ amongst youth, which resulted in some children being orphans.

He expressed concern on violence in homes noting that anyone could be a victim of domestic violence and emphasised the need for all to stand up against such incidents since they could cause physical and emotional harm to children and young people. He also pointed out that lack of parental care and guidance was also worrisome since some victims had resorted to social ills because they felt isolated, embarrassed and helpless.

Through the walk, he said he wanted to impart information to guide young people to make well informed decisions on their lives. Mr Manuel appealed to business community and public to support the event. ends