15 Nov 2021

Botswana, like the rest of the world is preparing to commemorate the 16 days of activism against gender based violence that will last from November 25 to December 10.

This year’s theme: Orange the World End Violence Against Women Now, has been refined to national level and now reads: Unite to End Gender Based Violence Now.

Speaking at an event to raise awareness on the commemoration in Paje on Friday, Department of Gender Affairs official, Ms Abaleng Khombane said refining the theme was aimed at including everyone on matters related to gender based violence.

Ms Khombane said gender based violence affected all, directly or indirectly and could happen to anyone, anytime.

Senior gender affairs officer, Ms Peoyame Tladi said gender based violence included physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse.

The most common, she said was sexual abuse which included rape, defilement and incest.

For her part, Silence Kills Support Group project officer, Ms Tebogo Marope said the consequences of violence were classified into three groups being the health, social and economic aspects.

Sergeant Oarabile Tom noted that the Domestic Violence Act of 2008 focused on protecting women in domestic relationships.

He said abuse mainly occurred between people in relationships and advised people to be honest with one another to avert misunderstandings that might lead to violence.

Seargent Tom advised that any form of abuse be reported so that it was addressed. ENDS