25 Jun 2025

In a powerful show of unity, religious leaders from various faiths gathered over the past week to pray against the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV), emphasising the critical role of spiritual intervention in addressing what they described as a deeply rooted societal ill.

The interfaith prayer session, held at the Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone brought together representatives from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and traditional African spiritual practices. The event was organised as part of a national campaign to combat rising cases of GBV, which continue to plague communities across the country.

Addressing the gathering during the mark of the end of the week-long prayer, on Monday, minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Ms Lesego Chombo described GBV not only as a legal or social crisis but as a spiritual affliction tearing at the fabric of families and communities.

“Gender-based violence is a spiritual battle that must be fought with spiritual weapons, it is a manifestation of darkness, and we must call on the light of faith, unity, and compassion to drive it out, it has no place in our society,” Ms Chombo stated.

She stressed that the fight against GBV demands a coordinated, multi-sectoral strategy, urging collective investment from government, civil society, traditional authorities, individuals and the private sector.

“We cannot tackle violence in isolation, a multi-sectoral investment approach is key to building a violence-free Botswana, we must direct resources towards the prevention of gender-based violence, and we must do so collectively,” she said.

Ms Chombo further highlighted the need to strengthen legal and judicial systems, noting that while policies existed, their enforcement often fell short due to limited coordination and resources.

“Our legal framework must be supported with proper enforcement mechanisms, it is not enough to have laws on paper, they must translate into real justice and protection for our people,” she added.

Minister Chombo concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to creating a society where peace, equality, and dignity were the norm. She encouraged all sectors to align their efforts with national development goals that prioritised safety, social justice, and human rights. Ms Chombo’s remarks struck a chord with the diverse audience, as religious leaders took turns leading prayers, chanting, and reading from their sacred texts, all calling for healing, transformation, and divine intervention.

In her keynote address, the Acting Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Helen Manyeneng commended the spirit of interfaith cooperation, describing it as a powerful force for national healing.

“This is not just about religion, it is about coming together for the soul of our nation,” she said.

Ms Manyeneng emphasised the role of moral and spiritual education in shaping respectful communities and urged families to instill values of empathy and non-violence in children, especially boys.

“Violence against women and children is not only a crime, it is a sin in all our faiths, we must raise boys who understand that strength lies in kindness, not control,” she said.

Ms Manyeneng also thanked traditional leaders for playing a transformative role in shaping community values and behavior.

“Chiefs are custodians of our culture, we need them to help rebuild our communities with a moral compass that rejects violence in all its forms, let us revive the spirit of botho and unity, where every individual feels safe and valued,” she noted.

Ms Manyeneng stressed that rebuilding communities on a foundation of mutual respect, empathy, and accountability began with strong moral leadership. Faith-based organisations pledged to enhance community outreach, counseling, and educational initiatives to help prevent abuse and promote respectful relationships. During the solemn event, congregants lit candles in memory of GBV victims and in hopeful reflection for a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from violence. ENDS