16 Jun 2025

Dikgosi are at the centre of Botswana’s fight against gender-based violence (GBV), with a call for dialogue and cultural transformation.

Speaking at the official opening of the 3^rd Meeting of the 5^th Ntlo Ya Dikgosi on Monday, chairperson of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi, Kgosi Malope II emphasised the need for collective action and cultural leadership in addressing the rising cases of GBV across the country.

“Violence is never a solution,” said Kgosi Malope, adding that dikgosi were set to convene for a week-long session deliberating on issues surrounding GBV, as well as formulating and exploring sustainable solutions to curb and prevent the scourge in their communities.

He stressed that dikgosi must promote dialogue, peace and respect within families and communities since such was a tool in resolving conflicts and combating GBV.

Kgosi Malope highlighted that the gathering would bring together various stakeholders, including gender advocacy NGOs like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Ministry of Health, Botswana Police Service, and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), to place cultural leadership at the forefront of combating GBV. He said that at the end of the gathering, it was hoped that collaborative platform for traditional leaders and stakeholders would be established, to reflect on challenges, share best practices and forge community-led strategies for prevention and justice.

Kgosi Malope said GBV was not just a legal or social issue, but a moral crisis that affected families and communities.

He therefore, said as custodians of culture, it was time that dikgosi take the lead in shifting harmful norms and promoting dignity of all people as well as fostering peace, respect, and unity within families and communities According to Botswana Police Service, cases of domestic violence and sexual assault had seen a concerning rise in recent years. ENDS