30 Jan 2025

Members of Ntlo ya Dikgosi have collaborated with key stakeholders, including the Botswana National Gender Commission (BNGC), to explore new strategies for addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Botswana.

In an interview, Kgosi Mosadi Seboko of Balete expressed concern over the increasing  number of rape cases and passion killings, emphasising that these issues required immediate and effective solutions.

“Many chiefs are overseeing large communities, which can slow down the process of spreading knowledge and enacting change. Partnering with organisations like the BNGC is crucial for tackling GBV, especially in rural areas," she said.

She highlighted challenges in inheritance practices which were often influenced by cultural norms. 

She expressed the importance of ensuring that property distribution did not favour one gender or lineage over another, and advocated for equal treatment of both boys and girls to foster healthy self-esteem. 

"We advise our communities to distribute property based on its value or sell it and share the proceeds. As Dikgosi, we aim to raise awareness and address the root causes of GBV, while continuing to uphold the principle of Botho at national level," she said. 

Chairperson of Ntlo ya Dikgosi, Kgosi Malope II said that GBV was not limited to urban areas but was increasingly affecting rural communities as well.

He expressed concern over the rise in GBV cases and highlighted the importance of exchanging ideas with key stakeholders to curb future occurrences.

“As leaders and voices for the masses, we have engaged the BNGC, which is working on proposing a bill to Parliament to address GBV. BNGC has introduced an initiative aimed at combating GBV, but there is a critical need for dedicated funding to tackle this issue," he said.

Chairperson of the BNGC, Ms Joy Phumaphi noted that their joint efforts with Ntlo ya Dikgosa were focused on advocating for creation of a statutory body with the authority to hold stakeholders accountable.

“We are committed to harnessing the potential of every citizen, regardless of gender. This collective approach will support the acceptance of the National Gender Act and the development of a national policy and implementation plan that aligns with Vision 2036," said Ms Phumaphi.

The collaboration between Ntlo ya Dikgosi and BNGC is seen as a crucial step toward addressing the deep-rooted issues of GBV in the country and ensuring a safer and better future for all. ENDS