19 Feb 2024

Men’s Sector - Francistown continues its campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) on women and children.

At  a committee meeting held by the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport, and Culture (Francistown) in collaboration with the Men’s Sector - Francistown, the chairperson, Principal Officer Mr Magama Magama of the Botswana Prison Services, emphasised the need to acknowledge the few good men who are making a positive difference within their communities.

He highlighted the significant efforts of the Men’s Sector-Francistown and noted that their contributions often go unnoticed amidst the prevailing social issues involving men.

Mr Magama stressed that the primary objective of the Men’s Sector is to promote holistic health, encompassing mental, financial, and social well-being. He also emphasized the influential role of men as leaders and role models for the younger generation.

“There are boys and girls that look up to us, and as men we have to act accordingly and lead by example”, he added.
The Mayor of Francistown, Mr Godisang Radisigo, underscored the importance of recognising that GBV affects people from all walks of life.

He said in 2021, more than 80 per cent (24 432 out of 30 461) of cases which were reported to the Botswana Police Service, were GBV-related whilst in 2022, 60 per cent (19 727 out of 32 983) of cases were GBV-related.

“And for last year alone, which is January to June, 5 208 out of 16 447 cases reported were GBV-related”, said Mr Radisigo.

Furthermore, Mr Radisigo said in Francistown, from January 2023 to November 2023 there were 236 rape cases, and from those cases, 117 involved children. Moreover, he stated that the alarming prevalence of GBV affecting children was of grave societal concern that demanded urgent attention and comprehensive action.

This, he said called for people to be vigilant, to be empathetic and to be active in their communities. “If you see something, say something; if you hear something, speak up,” said.

For his part, Kgosi Gunny Moses of Phase IV emphasised the need for open and honest conversations with men to address the root causes of GBV and to challenge the stereotypes and cultural norms that perpetuate inequality.

He stressed the power of education and awareness programmes to foster respect and consent in society.

“Education is a powerful tool, and through awareness programmes in schools, workplaces, and communities, we can instill values of respect and consent,” he said.

Other speakers echoed the need for a collective effort to combat GBV, emphasising the significance of community involvement, vigilance, and empathetic support. They also highlighted the role of pre-marital counseling in promoting peaceful relationships.