Sonke Gender Justice

News Category: Press Releases

  • Gender-based violence is a pervasive problem that continues to plague our society

    On Tuesday, March 21, 2023, South Africa observed Human Rights Day. Human Rights Day is an affirmation by ordinary people, who rise in unison to proclaim their rights while also drawing attention to issues that South Africans continue to face which undermine these rights. Unfortunately, South Africa has a long history of violence against women, and this is one area where our country is not doing well as statistics by relevant authorities.  As South African’s were celebrating Human Rights Day, yet another heinous case of gender-based violence was made known to the public by Yolande Mngxali, a daughter of the alleged abuser, Siphiwo Mngxali, detailed her mother’s ordeal of abuse on social media. The account pointed to a long history of systemic abuse of their mother and them as children as they were exposed to this.

    Violence against women is staggeringly high in South Africa, with an estimated one in three women experiencing domestic and sexual violence. In many of these cases, survivors are failed by the criminal justice system. We also know that many survivors do not bother to report cases of abuse because they simply have lost confidence in the system that periodically is found wanting in such matters.

    According to Yolande Mngxali’s social media post, the perpetrator was arrested in Mthatha on March 8, 2023, for attempted murder of his wife, Dr ATY Siphambo-Mngxali. He has requested bail. His bail hearing at Mthatha magistrate court is scheduled for March 22, 2023. It is our hope that given the gravity of this case the sate will oppose bail to ensure that the family is kept safe while the investigations ensue, and the case unfolds.  Sonke Gender Justice in collaboration with other civil society organisations supports Yolande Mngxali and her family, and applauds Mngxali’s bravery in speaking out and seeking help, despite the fact that the alleged act of abuse was committed by her father.

    We extend our solidarity to Dr ATY Siphambo-Mngxali who has been facing an extended exposure to abuse. She wrote a passionate letter of plea to the president curtailing her litany of exposure to acute abuse and failures by the criminal justice system. For a citizen to be placed in such a position where they have to pen a letter to the head of state due to failures of the criminal justice system is unfortunate. This in a country that has signed up to a comprehensive NSP-GBVF is a problem.

    We urge Mthatha’s police and justice systems to prioritise the safety and protection of victims of gender-based violence. This is critical because, in many cases, the victim must put their life on hold while attempting to remain calm when abused by a family member, friend, or partner. They must mentally prepare themselves by not retaliating in anger when attacked.

    Sonke Gender Justice is deeply concerned about the continuous gender-based violence in South Africa. Sonke Gender Justice reiterates its call for a safer South Africa that values the sanctity of women’s bodies and lives and eliminates GBV and femicide in particular.

    You can sign a petition here: https://bit.ly/404Dzwv  to keep the alleged perpetrator in jail.

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice is outraged and condemns the act of the South African police officer for coercing her son to have sex with her

    We call for the South African Police Service (SAPS) to take definitive action. 

    A young boy from Limpopo was coerced into having sex with his police  officer mom. The horrific accident was filmed and circulated on social media recently. 

    The boy has been sent to a place of safety and is undergoing counseling. According to the Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offence, unit was tasked with investigating the incident.

    Sonke demands that this case takes priority. Violence and rape against minors is a plummeting issue in South Africa; one in five children is a victim of sexual abuse. This is according to 2019/2020 Annual Crime Statistics presented by SAPS. More than 24 000 children were sexually assaulted in South Africa during that period. 

    In the past year, the statistics against children is shocking. 243 children have been murdered and 1 670 cases of assault with grievous bodily harm against children have been reported. 

    The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) has also launched an investigation. As their role, the IPID investigates any rape by a police officer, whether the police officer is on or off duty.

    The abuse of power by South African authorities is unacceptable. We hope SAPS and IPID will take immediate action and hold the officer accountable. It is key that the investigation process is transparent and thorough to give confidence to the citizens that such behaviour especially by those enjoined to uphold the law is taken very serious. 

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice calls for prioritisation of the safety of sex workers

    Sonke Gender Justice is deeply saddened and outraged at the killings of six sex workers last weekend in central Johannesburg. 

    The six decomposing bodies were discovered inside a panel beater’s shop by a security guard, after he noticed a strange smell coming from the building. 

    The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, made a commitment in March 2019 to decriminalize sex work and to the safeguarding of sex workers human rights at the signing of the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Declaration. Two years later, sex work is still illegal, and sex workers are still unsafe.  

    The decriminalisation of sex work is pivotal to the safety of workers. 

    According to the Female and Transwomxn Sex Worker Deaths in South Africa report published in 2020, 101 sex workers died in the year 2018 and 2019, and 45% of them were murdered. 

    The government has failed to keep its promise. We are seeing an incline of these brutal and senseless killings. 

    Jayne Arnott, Sex Worker Rights’ Specialist from Sonke Gender Justice explains that the above report continues the important work of the #SayHerName Campaign, to surface information around the deaths of sex workers that far too often go unnoticed. 

    The Campaign was launched in 2016 to commemorate and honour female and transwomxn sex workers whose lives had been lost as a result of violence. This report findings point to often brutal  and high levels of violence forms of violence  levelled against female and transwomxn sex workers in South Africa.

    This month we are grieving over the brutal killing of six more sex workers, we cannot continue to wait for change that can bring about much needed protections and safer working conditions.

    We are calling on the President and the government to urgently fulfill their promise of decriminalising sex work. Sex workers need safer working conditions and better access to protections and  public services.

    The decriminalisation of all aspects of the sex work industry will greatly improve working conditions for sex workers and ensure that they are afforded better protections as well as access to health and security services. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is currently engaged in developing a Decrim Bill and we urge the Deputy Minister, John Jeffery, to do all in his power to speed this process up.

  • Sonke Gender Justice extends condolences to the family of Zenizole Vena, who died at the age of 15, and demands accountability

    Sonke Gender Justice extends its heartfelt condolences to Zenizole Vena’s family and friends. We are deeply disturbed to learn of the death of yet another young person as a result of violence and the negligence of state institutions.

    According to reports, Vena died in the arms of Sindiswa Ntantiso inside the Motherwell police station’s community service centre on September 21 after they allegedly went to the Motherwell clinic for help. It is alleged that they were turned down and told to go to a police station first.

    Despite the fact that the health department in the Eastern Cape has disputed these reports,  we know that this is typical of South Africa’s health system, particularly in rural communities where survivors and victims of gender-based violence continue to be revictimized and not afforded much needed services when they present themselves at the facilities. Women and girls seeking treatment in the public health system are frequently turned away, with no professional or compassionate care or counselling. This despite the often-stated government commitment to provide service embedded in ubuntu principles of ‘batho pele’.

    It is the state’s responsibility to provide treatment to all survivors of GBV and rape in a safe and sensitive manner given the trauma. Unfortunately, we have seen instances of recklessness and lack of empathy by some health care providers.

    In a country like ours, with high rates of GBV and HIV infection, such cases of negligence should not occur, but preventative measures, such as addressing high levels of crime, including rape, , must be implemented. The Department of Health should do everything possible to ensure that survivors of assault and sexual violence receive adequate care and that victims are treated with care and compassion and that all the crucial DNA evidence is collected at this crucial time.

    South Africa has one of the highest rape rates in the world, even higher than in some war-torn countries. Furthermore, sexual assault is significantly underreported. To end this systemic and endemic culture, all stakeholders must step up and commit to investing resources and ensure that we  fight as a collective.

    To this end, we call upon all related state organs involved with this case namely the Dept of health and SAPS to subject themselves to an independent review on how they handled this matter. Zenizole and her family deserves the truth. It will be crucial that in an event of any failures or lapses that will be uncovered by the investigation all those involved be held accountable.

    Call to Action

    • Sonke demands that the police dedicate all available resources to finalising the investigation and apprehending the alleged perpetrators.
    • An investigation into negligence or mismanagement of both the Dept of Health and SAPS in the late Zenizole Vena’s case.
    • The Dept of Justice must fast track the roll out of the Thuthuzela care centres in all areas. More specially trained sexual assault nurse examiners are needed (SANE) in all health care facilities.

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice calls for justice for the death of Mahsa Amini

    Ms Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman died in the hands of morality police last week.

    She was visiting the Iranian capital with her family when she was detained on Tuesday by the morality police because she was not wearing “improper” headscarf in public. The police unit is responsible for enforcing the Islamic republic’s strict dress code for women.

    Sonke condemns the violence women suffer in the hands of government forces in such circumstances. Amini suspiciously fainted in a jail cell with others while being detained and President Ebrahim Raisi has ordered the interior minister to open an investigation into Amini’s case. There are reports that allege that that she died as a result of ‘torture and was insulted’.

    Iran has severe rules against women and strict policing on their dressing code, leading to a decline in women’s rights. In the last few days, many female protestors have taken to the streets without hijabs, and some have cut their hair as an act of defiance. Reports indicate that about about 34 people have since died since the outbreak of pretests in the cities of Iran.

    According to the latest statistics, over 16,000 women are prosecuted by the military police in Iran for violations, this includes wearing an improper hijab.

    We call on the government to act urgently in investigating Amini’s death and those of the numerous protestors arising from the popular protests. We call on police to stop the harassment on women and citizens who are rightfully angered by the cruel death of Amini. We call on the civil societies to open dialogue and intervene on women’s rights. We call for accountability and the officials involved to face justice.

    As Sonke Gender Justice we stand in solidarity with the people of Iran calling for accountability on this matter.

  • Sonke Gender Justice condemns the inappropriate statements made by Minister of Police Bheki Cele and Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen over the past week

    Steenhuisen referred to his ex-wife as “roadkill” on MacG’s podcast. When MacG posed the question, “what is roadkill?” and he answered, “sounds a lot like my ex-wife.”

    Furthermore, in response to the #CeleMustGo billboard, Bheki Cele said if the DA was serious about gender-based violence, they could have dealt with Steenhuisen because he abused a woman who worked in his office. 

    Sonke is shocked at the improper statements made by these two politicians weaponizing women in their personal wars, driven by their toxic masculinities. 

    In the light of Women’s month, we should be celebrating women and fighting for women’s rights and rallying behind the empowerment of women. 

    It is disappointing that with South Africa being one of the countries with the highest incidence of rape in the world and with the many gender-based violence cases that have occurred over the past years, men are still making problematic statements marked as “jokes” and as public figures, Steenhuisen and Cele should know better.  

    John Steenhuisen and Bheki Cele should be held accountable for these toxic statements.

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo
    Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance
    bafana@genderjustice.org.za
    082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice appalled to learn about the alleged sexually harassment allegations levelled against Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana

    Enock Godongwana is the latest prominent political figure to face sexual misconduct allegations. The minister allegedly sexually abused a massage therapist at Kruger National Park, according to reports.

    Sonke Gender Justice is outraged by allegations of sexual harassment allegedly committed by South Africa’s Finance Minister, Enock Godongwana. The allegations are incredibly disheartening and should be taken seriously, especially in our socioeconomic context, which is characterised by high levels of violence against women and abuse and children.

    There has been a pattern or history of prominent political or public leaders using their positions of power to abuse women and girls. Albert Fritz of Democratic Alliance was also implicated in the sexual misconduct lawsuit earlier this year, so this is one of many horrific examples. In light of this, we must hold leaders and others in positions of power accountable in order to prevent this type of behaviour from occurring again especially given the high levels of sexual offences in our country.

    We note that Minister Godongwana has since denied the allegations. We are deeply disturbed however and demand a thorough, speedy and independent investigation. The government must act swiftly on this issue and send a clear message that such behaviour is not acceptable especially in the light of the GBVF-NSP policy and Related commitments.

     “It is concerning when such reports come to the fore given the high levels of GBV already in our country. There is a greater expectation by society that leaders will maintain high moral standards as demanded by their offices to ensure that they lead society away from toxic masculine behavior. We hope that if a prima facie case is made on this matter the President will do the honorable thing and ensure that this minister is fully held accountable”, says Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director of Sonke Gender Justice.

    We strongly support survivors and victims who speak out against various forms of abuse and encourage others to speak out when confronted with similar forms of abuse. We are aware that South Africa has a problem with under-reporting for a variety of reasons, including fear of retaliation, shame, or a lack of belief that anything will be done. Hence, it is crucial to believe those who come forward and take such cases seriously.

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo
    Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance
    bafana@genderjustice.org.za
    082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice strongly condemns the threats directed towards the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI)

    It is disheartening to note that SERI, a public interest law firm has been forced to temporarily close its doors following threats that began on Wednesday to injure their employees and burn down their offices. This is after SERI settled a case against the removal of informal traders from the De Villiers precinct in the Johannesburg Central Business District.

    In a statement released by SERI, it states that Nkululeko Mbundu, a member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development in the City of Johannesburg, falsely tweeted that the city had been interdicted after “locals were used as a front” to bring a court application and that De Villiers would be invaded in the morning as a result of SERI’s litigation. In a series of social media posts and in a media interview, Cllr Mbundu also claimed, falsely, that South African Informal Traders Forum (SAITF) is “pretty much all foreign nationals… with a front of South Africans”. He also suggested that the De Villiers trading precinct would be “invaded” as a result of the order. He implied that SAITF and SERI constitute “a syndicate with big, vested interests”. It is quite concerning that such reckless statements were spread by a government official!

    Sonke is extremely concerned that  Nkululeko Mbundu’s tweets,  establish a precedent for citizens to intimidate human rights activists or civil society. According to SERI, images of the attorney working on the case were posted on Twitter, and people were encouraged to make threatening calls to her and tell her to “back off or else” or to ‘pay her a visit’. Both lawyers were warned to guard their backs and that individuals knew their locations and were coming for them.

    Councilor Nkululeko Mbundu’s remarks are despicable and constitute hate speech and an incitement to violence against SERI and the individual lawyers working on the case. This targeted attack is an affront to the values espoused in the Constitution of the Republic.

    In South Africa we have increasingly observed this rising trend of intolerance expressed through the media against vulnerable groups and civil society organisations working to advance human rights freedoms. Whilst section 16 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 provides everyone with the right to freedom of expression. This right is qualified  in terms of section 16(2) that right to freedom of expression does not extend to the incitement of imminent violence or incitement to cause harm to another. Likewise, Section 10 of the Equality Act specifically prohibits the publication of words that could reasonably be construed to demonstrate a clear intention to be hurtful, harmful or incite harm and or promote hatred. It is the collective responsibility of public officials to nurture social consciousness, mutual respect, tolerance and prevent incitement to hatred or violence.

    SERI has since reported the threats to the South African Police Service and requested that a case be opened against those responsible. 

    Sonke Gender Justice welcomes the statement read today, August 1, 2022, by a representative of the City of Johannesburg, condemning Cllr Mbudu’s remarks during the press conference organized by SERI. The Mayor expressed an apology but noted that the MMC’s comments do not represent the views of the multiparty government. Furthermore, the Mayor’s statement publicly condemned the statements made by Cllr Mbundu and urges all officials to seize and desist from making any inflammatory or inciteful statements. 

    The City does not endorse a cleaning of the City of Johannesburg involving the removal of poor black people. We trust that the City of Johannesburg will go beyond just condemning this act but follow through with holding Cllr Mbundu accountable for his reckless behaviour.

    We hope and trust that the police will move speedily to hold those who posed threats accountable and the protection of SERI’s property including their employees.

    Sonke Gender Justice unequivocally supports SERI and joins the urgent call for Cllr Mbundu to retract false statements about SERI and SAITF, and to refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as incitement or endorsement of violence against any person or group of people. 

    More Information

    For media enquiries and to obtain interviews, please contact:

    Bafana Khumalo
    Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance
    bafana@genderjustice.org.za or +27-82-578-4479

    Note to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

    About SIRI here.

  • Sonke Gender Justice calls on the leadership of the SAPS to take responsibility for the incompetence of its members at the Madeira police station in Stutterheim

    South Africa watched with horror the level of incompetence demonstrated by police on a GBV related matter caught on camera in Stutterheim. Sonke Gender Justice (Sonke) is disappointed by the insensitivity and incompetence of the South African Police Services (SAPS) showed in a video clip in the public domain. On the 25th of May 2022, a disturbing video circulated on Twitter, of a victim of gender-based violence attempting to report GBV at the Madeira Police station in Stutterheim. The victim was continuously assaulted by an alleged perpetrator in front of SAPS officers at the police station who appear to have simply failed on their duty.

    Sonke Gender Justice is troubled by this incident, which occurred in the presence of police officers, in a place where women must feel safe and protected from harm. The South African Police Service has a duty to serve and protect the citizens of the country, but in this case, they failed to do so. This is a clear indication as to why the level of GBV is so high in this country. Perpetrators know that they have complete impunity. 

    SAPS’s incompetence is a disservice to the public, and especially to women and girls, who are disproportionately vulnerable to violence.

    Women in South Africa continue to be violated in the face of insufficient police response. The cases of police incompetence and victimization of women and children by the police are common. Police systems do little to ensure that their own system is accountable to the community they serve. Victims find themselves looking for other ways to seek justice, unable to trust the very institution appointed in protecting them from violence.

    The SAPS officer present in this case failed to act and protect the women from the abuser. This is inexcusable and cannot be ignored. It is concerning that this kind of behavior is not uncommon.  There needs to be accountability for this laxity from the National Commissioner and the responsible Minister. 

     It is a known fact that many women opt not to report cases of GBV and even rape simply because of the nasty experience they receive from the police. 

    Victims of gender-based violence face numerous challenges in the criminal justice system. Sonke notes that the majority of reported cases never get prosecuted due to a lack of dedicated and trained personnel to handle such matters and to provide adequate legal information to victims. Additionally, the criminal justice system lacks adequate training, resources, and accountability as a result of decades of insufficient training and insufficient resources.

    Sonke calls for gender-responsive policing efforts that prioritise survivor-centered approaches such as believing and supporting victims and survivors while holding perpetrators accountable.

    Sonke demands that the SAPS, Minister Bheki Cele, and the Commissioner of Police, General Sehlahle Fannie Masemola to, take responsibility for the massive failure of their officials, whom they trained. Sonke also calls for serious consequences for SAPS officials who failed to fulfil their constitutional obligation to protect women’s rights from an abuser.

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke sends its heartfelt condolences to Namhla Mtwa’s family and calls for justice

    Sonke Gender Justice extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Singa Namhla Ntwa, a young woman from the Eastern Cape who was shot dead on 21 April 2022. 

    Namhla Mtwa, 34, was shot nine times in her car as she entered her home in Sidwada, in Mthata in the Eastern Cape. No arrests have been made. 

    Mtwa’s sister took to social media with the hashtag #JusticeforNamhla and shared graphic pictures of her sister with horrifying bruises on her body, alleging years of abuse. 

    According to the Crimes Against Women in South Africa report released by Statistics Africa, one in five women (21%) had experienced physical violence by a partner. Minister Bheki Cele also revealed that between July and September 2021, over 9500 Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases were reported. 

    Two weeks ago, Hillary Gardee, 28, daughter of former EFF secretary-general and lawyer Godrich Gardee, was found murdered in Mpumalanga. In the past years, there has also been the killing of Tshegofatso Pule, Natasha Conabeer, Karabo Mokoena and many others. These brutal killings cannot go on. 

    We cannot work in solace. We call on the police, communities, civil societies, and the government to prioritise Gender-Based Violence. This includes ensuring that the NSP for GBVF is fully implemented and adequate funding made available. It is clear that more work on the second pillar of the strategy needs to be heightened. This includes the need for innovative programmes to engage the challenge of toxic masculinities for both boys and men. 

    It is apparent that Namhla has been exposed to repeated exposure to GBV. We all as a society need to take responsibility that we continuously fail people like Namhla. Someone must have known that Namhla was being abused. The bigger question is what do we do when we are aware of such abuse? It is sad that many amog us look the other way. We need more vigilance in our society to ensure that GBV is never tolerated and ignored. 

    The African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape took to the streets and marched last week in Mthatha calling for justice for Namhla. What is required of course is improved accountability from state institutions to ensure that mechanisms are put in place to turn the tide against GBV. 

    Sonke is urging the criminal justice system to act swiftly in finding the perpetrator and ensure justice for Namhla. 

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Tackling a global crisis at grassroots level

    Communities are the bedrock of society, they hold the power to influence a change to the status quo as it relates to violent and unjust treatment of women, girls, differently abled persons and members of the lgbtqi+ community.

    Until we empower, educate and seek to redress the gender stereotypes within our communities, we will not achieve gender just and violence free societies.

    Gender-based violence (GBV) is a grave human rights violation that poses a severe health and safety concern. Women, girls, differently abled persons and members of the Lgbtqi+ community, are mostly likely to be subjected to sexual or physical violence, during their lifetime.

    Despite constitutional and legislative safeguards enacted by the South African government, gender and sexual orientation-based violence persists at alarming rates.

    In line with this, Generation G, South African coalition seeks to engage communities in a series of dialogue around the promotion of gender justice and the prevention of GBV.

    The programme endeavours to do this through the following long term objectives:

    • Mobilising public support
    • Policy Change
    • Civil Society Strengthening

    Call to action

    Activate Change Drivers invites you to our Generation G community dialogue, taking place at 10:00 on Saturday on 14 May 2022 at Victorious Church (12856 Falcon Road, Ext 7a Strettford, 1805).

    Where we will endeavour to engage the youth in Orange Farm, on innovative ways of creating gender just and violence-free communities.

    Through the four part dialogue series, we seek to mobilize young people in their full diversity, in promoting gender justice and prevention of gender- based violence on and offline.

    The objectives of the dialogues include but not limited to:

    • Engaging youth in Gender Justice and prevention of Gender Based Violence and Femicide.
    • Understanding key drivers of GBV and Gender Injustices
    • Understanding the key needs of each community to enable them to contribute to the promotion of Gender Justice and the prevention ofGBV.
    • Developing innovative ways towards the creation of gender just andviolence free societies.

    About Generation G

    Generation G is a global programme implemented in seven (7) Countries namely; Morocco, Jordan, Lebanon, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and the Netherlands.

    The partnership strives towards creating gender-just and violence-free communities for and young people in their full diversity. Youth from 15 – 32 are at the heart of this partnership as they are often excluded from meaningful decision-making spaces.

    The Generation G South African Coalition comprises three partner organizations namely; ACTIVATE! Change Drivers, Sonke Gender Justice and ActionAid South Africa are responsible for advancing the objective of the Generation G programme in South Africa.

    For further inquiries and media engagements contact the Activate team:

    Nkokheli Mankayi
    Generation G Project Manager
    Nkokheli@activateleadership.co.zapage3image38062720

    Thato Mphuthi
    Generation G Orange farm Community champions
    mphuthithatohatsi@gmail.com

    Zamayirha Peter
    Communications Manager Activate Change Drivers
    zamayirha@activateleadership.co.za

  • Sonke Gender Justice extends its condolences to the family of Hillary Gardee, who was found dead in Mpumalanga

    Sonke Gender Justice is saddened to learn about the passing of Hillary Gardee, 28, daughter of former EFF secretary-general and lawyer Godrich Gardee, who disappeared four days ago. We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gardee family, the Gardee circle of relatives, and all those who knew Hillary.

    “Information is still coming in, so we don’t know for sure what happened, but it looks at this stage as though she was abducted and murdered.”- EFF spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo

    South Africa remains unsafe for women and children. Despite the country’s efforts, gender-based violence has not been eradicated.

    In a statement released by the EFF, Hillary was described as an enthusiastic, kind, and caring individual with a who had a passion for information technology (IT). Her life was tragically cut short, denying the world the opportunity to learn from her and vice versa.

    Hillary Gardee’s case is just one of many. In September 2020, two other women were found dead in the same province, Mpumalanga, Bushbuckridge municipality. While this is not an isolated issue, the number of cases in Mpumalanga province is so great that specialized resources are required to help with proper investigations of such heinous crimes to help families find closure.

    In the five-year period between 2015 and 2020, a total of 13,815 women over the age of 18 years were murdered, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS). That’s an average of 2,763 murders a year, or about seven women a day. 

    These manifestations tell us that something is seriously wrong with our society, and as citizens of this country, we cannot ignore or turn a blind eye to the rising levels of gender-based violence and femicide in our streets. By educating the youth and making it clear that femicide and other gender-based violent crimes have no place in a democratic South Africa, the government and all relevant institutions must institute programmes to combat these crimes and eradicate the violent culture that plagues our society.

    To put an end to the pandemic of femicide and violence against women, immediate action is required. Sonke calls on the Mpumalanga provincial Police Commissioner  and relevant stakeholders to spare no efforts in ensuring that this crime is properly investigated, and that the responsible perpetrator(s) are brought to book speedily. 

    Media enquiries

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    • Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice congratulates Yolanda Dyantyi on winning her case against Rhodes University 

    Sonke Gender Justice congratulates Yolanda Dyantyi and Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI-rights) on winning their case against Rhodes University on the expulsion of Ms. Dyantyi from the university. The Supreme Court of Appeal has set aside the guilty judgement by Rhodes University with costs. 

    It has been a long five years for Yolanda and her legal team since her exclusion from Rhodes University in 2017. Yolanda was found guilty of alleged kidnapping, insubordination, and defamation during the #RhodesReferenceList protests. 

    The campaign was a deep cry response by female students at Rhodes University who felt strongly that the institution was not dealing with reported cases of sexual violence and rape inadequately. Ms Dyantyi was subsequently permanently excluded from Rhodes University and interdicted from attending the university for any purpose from November 2017. 

    Ms Dyantyi was part of the peaceful anti-GBV protest at the university after a list of alleged sexual offenders trended on social media and the university acted against students who named the alleged offenders. 

    The Supreme Court of Appeal reviewed and set aside Rhodes University’s conviction of permanently excluding Yolanda Dyantyi and has remitted the matter to the university for “reconsideration on condition that any continuation of the disciplinary inquiry against Ms Dyantyi shall take place before another proctor.”

    Sonke Gender Justice #StandsWithYolanda and condemns the insensitivity and callous way in which Rhodes University handled the matter. Like Ms Dyantyi, many victims of sexual violence have been failed by higher institutions of learning and have had their lives disrupted and derailed. This judgement is an important lesson for other institutions confronted by similar cases to refrain from secondary victimization and silencing of students. 

    We admire Ms Dyantyi and SERI-Rights’s bravery and resilience. We hope that the judgement sends a strong message that institutions of higher learning must manage such cases with due regard for the law and justice. 

    For media enquiries, contact:

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.za  or 073-988-2870

  • Sonke Gender Justice calls for a political settlement to end Ukraine and Russia conflict

    Sonke Gender Justice calls for an end to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and encourages a peaceful settlement between the two countries.

    Russia launched its invasion on Ukraine on 24 February 2022 following the Russian President, Vladimir Putin announcement of “a special military operation” against Ukraine. The decision was based on the recognition of the two breakaway states, Donetsk People’s Republic, and Luhansk People’s Republic by Russia. 

    Russia has launched a devasting attack on Ukraine with warplanes bombing major cities. According to the Ukrainian Healthcare ministry, there has been 352 deaths and 14 of them children. Nearly 2 thousand people have also been wounded. Within few days of this invasion of Ukraine, thousands of innocent citizens are fleeing into exile in bordering countries with barely a few essentials that they could manage to carry. 

    Sonke is deeply concerned about the innocent human lives affected by the conflict and human suffering this is causing. We call for all human rights to be upheld by all parties and encourages that no effort be spared  to work towards peacebuilding in the region. 

    As the founding principles in the United Nations charter state that “the obligation of member countries to obey the Charter, to cooperate with the UN Security Council and to use peaceful means to resolve conflict,” we propose a constructive peace-talks between the two countries. 

    We also note with concern the ill-treatment of African nationals in Ukraine seeking to leave the country. African governments have been trying to evacuate their citizens from Ukraine since the Russian invasion last week however it is reported that Africans have been maltreated and racially discriminated by Ukrainian security forces and are being refused to board trains to flee to safety. It is also noted that some border officials in receiving countries are also discriminating against Africans. This is not acceptable and is in contravention of established protocols. 

    Sonke urges these governments to allow African nationals to cross borders without restrictions and work with African governments to ensure their safe transfer. 

    We call on the UN to redouble their efforts in facilitating a peaceful negotiated settlement and ensure that no more lives are lost needlessly. 

  • Sonke Gender Justice commends the removal of Albert Fritz, the Western Cape Community Safety MEC, from office following allegations of sexual assault

    Sonke Gender Justice welcomes Premier Alan Winde’s decision to remove Albert Fritz from his position. This comes after an independent investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct, allegedly against young women recruited to work in his office, was completed.

    We learned earlier this year that Albert Fritz, the Western Cape Community Safety MEC at the time, stepped aside after employees leveled serious allegations of sexual assault against him.

    Sonke congratulates Advocate Jennifer Williams on her prompt investigation into sexual misconduct allegations leveled against Western Cape community safety MEC Albert Fritz. 

    Advocate Jennifer Williams interviewed 18 people, including the complainants, collateral witnesses, Fritz, and individuals he nominated. The evidence points to a pervasive culture of sexual objectification of women in the ministry, supported by an undeniable power imbalance. We wonder how deep this culture is in the Western cape government? We doubt that this would have been an isolated incident. We hope others who may have been exposed to this toxic culture may be emboldened by this to also come forward. 

    When powerful men are found guilty of criminal or human rights violations, they are far too often spared the full might of the law. That is why we must amplify the voices of those who come forward and make sure that the law takes its course and ensure that there are adequate safeguarding processes in place. We must stand in solidarity with women who are speaking out and reclaiming their voices and power. This is not the time for silence, especially given South Africa’s high rate of gender-based violence against women.

    Women have the right to equal participation in the workplace, free of violence, harassment, and discrimination. Unfortunately, for many women, safe workplaces are not a reality.

    Sexual objectification or grooming of younger women is a symptom of an underlying problem that exists on our streets, in our homes, in our schools, in our communities, in places of worship and in our workplaces. The betrayal of survivors by community’s leadership who are supposed to serve the community is reprehensible. We cannot accept violations of human rights, particularly those of women. Sonke stands in solidarity with the victims and survivors of this vile act.

    While Sonke welcomes that Fritz has been fired from his position after the allegations were proven to be credible. We urge that criminal charges be filed  against former MEC Albert Fritz.

    We hope more institutions both in the public and private sector will follow this example of dealing with such cases speedily and decisively. 

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries, contact:

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.za  or 073-988-2870.

    Notes to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

  • Sonke Gender Justice launches its #UnderTheBlankets campaign:refugees’ and migrants’ access to sexual health in South Africa

    Sonke Gender Justice launches its #UnderTheBlankets campaign:refugees’ and migrants’ access to sexual health in South Africa

    In the run up to Valentine’s Day next week, Sonke Gender Justice is launching a new campaign on migrants’ and refugees’ rights to access sexual and reproductive health services in South Africa.

    Our #UnderTheBlankets campaign encourages anyone – South African or not – to visit a webpage and read about how they can access government sexual and reproductive health services in South Africa. The campaign also seeks to remind healthcare workers that everyone in South Africa, regardless of nationality, has a right to access reproductive healthcare. 

    What are refugees’ and migrants’ rights to access sexual health in South Africa?

    Everyone is entitled to free primary health care services in South Africa. Any woman – regardless of nationality – wanting a termination of pregnancy (abortion) is entitled to receive that for free. 

    All pregnant and lactating women and all children under six years old are entitled to free hospital care. Outside of this, if a person is from a country in Southern Africa (SADC), they are entitled to be treated the same as a South African citizen at the hospital. This means that the treatment will be “means tested” (the fee depends on their circumstances). This applies to people from the SADC region, whether they have a South African ID, refugee status, an asylum seeker document – or no document at all. 

    What are sexual health and reproductive rights?

    Sexual and reproductive health rights cover a broad spectrum of rights. It includes the ability to: choose your partner, choose whether you want children or not, express your gender and sexuality, access contraception and get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), among others. For women it includes the ability to access services around a termination of a pregnancy, menstrual health and maternal health.

    Why is this campaign important?

    Refugees and migrants in South Africa can struggle to access healthcare in South Africa. Whilst some research finds foreign nationals’ access to public healthcare to be good, other research has previously found that ‘medical xenophobia is deeply entrenched in the South African public health system’, and research samples struggled, typically, to access public healthcare.

    Health affects us all, as humans – regardless of nationality. To improve South Africa’s sexual and reproductive healthcare as a nation, we need to include every person within her borders. Sonke Gender Justice advocates for the realisation of our constitutional right – wherever we come from – to access reproductive healthcare in South Africa.

    Which resources does the campaign provide to people?

    The campaign webpage contains important information about accessing sexual health. It aims to challenge taboos and secrecy around sexual and reproductive health by sharing real-life stories from refugees and migrants – such as Badr Afafand Abey –  accessing healthcare in South Africa. 

    The campaign webpage also points people towards a data-free map, made by Bhekisisa, which shows both government (free) clinics and private clinics near the user’s location. The campaign webpage also lists organisations and NGOs that can assist people, whatever their nationality is, to access sexual and reproductive healthcare in South Africa. 

    Meanwhile, healthcare workers are reminded of the universal access to reproductive healthcare via a video portrait from Sister Mhaka, a midwife working in a busy clinic in Maitland, Cape Town. Her written story can be read here, too.

    About Sonke Gender Justice

    Sonke Gender Justice is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice and achieve gender transformation.

    Further information

    For further information please contact Given Sigauqwe, Communications and Strategic Information Unit Manager, on given@genderjustice.org.za or 073 988 2870.

    __Abey* has given birth three times in South Africa – and each experience has been very different – from giving birth during the 2008 xenophobic attacks to being referred for sterilsation against her knowledge. Abey, who is originally from Angola herself, wants to see people from migrant backgrounds talk more openly about sexual health. She encourages people like herself to find out information online and empower themselves, so that they can stand up for themselves in clinics and hospitals.  Read Abey’s story here: genderjustice.org.za/undertheblankets/abey #UnderTheBlankets” 

  • Sonke calls for the Western Cape Democratic Alliance (DA) to expedite Albert Fritz’ disciplinary process

    Sonke Gender Justice (Sonke) is outraged by the latest allegations that another powerful man and politician is involved in a sexual harassment scandal. Albert Fritz, the Western Cape Community Safety MEC at the time, resigned after employees leveled serious allegations of sexual assault against him.

    Sexual assault stems from harmful power dynamics, gender stereotypes, norms, and attitudes that devalue women’s right to bodily autonomy and choices. This incident unfortunately is not isolated. We have seen several reports involving politicians using their positions of influence to abuse women.

    It is unfortunate that a government official is dragging us backwards in our pursuit for a world free from all forms of violence. It is disheartening that the some of the people we elected to protect the citizens of the country are the ones perpetrating violence against women. 

    Only a few months ago, Minister of the South African Police Services (SAPS), Bheki Cele delivered the shocking crime statistics, which showed a 7.1% increase in sexual violence between July and September 2021 when compared to the previous reporting period. This demonstrates the enormity of the challenge facing our country with regards to GBVF. 

    Cases of sexual assault in the workplace continue to rise as a result of the protection afforded to powerful men who commit such heinous acts. We must hold the perpetrators accountable and seek justice for the survivors.

    Women have the right to equal participation in the workplace, free of violence, harassment, and discrimination. Unfortunately, for many women in South Africa, safe workplaces are not a reality. In this respect, we acknowledge the ratification of ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the world of work. The challenge is for institutions to fast track the implementation of the recommendations contained in C190 as it provides a comprehensive model on how such matters should be managed to ensure justice. 

    In most cases, women who come forward to expose the violence perpetrated by prominent people face intimidation and may lose their lives or their income. As a result, it is critical that they are safeguarded. Those who have come forward to report sexual assault should be protected, and we demand that their jobs remain safe.

    Sonke is urging the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape to do the right thing and expedite the disciplinary process.

    We also demand an independent investigation into the allegations to avoid cover-ups. We expect the organisation to take swift action against any transgressions after the investigation is completed, while also taking precautions to protect the complainants and anyone else who comes forward to report sexual assault. 

    It is also critical to note that the responsibility for preventing sexual harassment rests with all of us. We must maintain our efforts to combat sexual harassment by educating our people and holding each other accountable.

    Abuse of women’s rights is unacceptable. Public officials are expected to be role models, upholding and protecting the country’s constitution and human rights.

    For media enquiries, contact:

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 -578-4479.

    Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.za  or 073-988-2870.

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation

  • Sonke Gender Justice and MenEngage Africa to participate in the 21st Edition of the International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA)

    Sonke Gender Justice, in collaboration with MenEngage Africa and Southern Africa AIDS Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS), will host 2 (two) high-level side events at the 21st Edition of the International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA). This crossbreed (in-person and virtual). The high-level side events will take place on December 07 and 09, 2021 at The Edward Hotel, Durban, South Africa.

    The high-level side events at the 21st Edition of the International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) will bring together, traditional leaders, activists, policymakers and programmers from civil society organisations, faith-based organisations from across Africa, people living with HIV& AIDS and others committed to ending the epidemic. ICASA presents a tremendous opportunity to highlight the diverse nature of the African region’s HIV epidemic and the unique response to it. 

    Despite a global commitment to preventing new HIV infections and ensuring that all HIV-positive people have access to HIV treatment, the Corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic is wreaking havoc on the world’s most vulnerable communities and jeopardizing global progress toward HIV eradication. As a result, the workshop will be held to address these concerns.

    The workshop focus will include the following: 

    • Advocacy A Reality; Engaging With Policymakers For Transformation and Amplifying Unheard Voices: Inclusion For Persons With Disabilities In The Aids Response
    • Finding the Balance; Perspectives From Religious and Traditional Leaders and Accelerating Service Uptake: The Role Of Religion and Tradition In The AIDS Response.

    Workshop Overview

    The hybrid Workshop arrangement accommodates the evolving COVID-19-related travel and social gathering restrictions while also allowing communities across the region to reach out to a larger audience. This workshop will be a 2-day hybrid (virtual and physical blend) with cooperating partners: MenEngage Africa, Sonke Gender Justice and SAfAIDS.

    Purpose and objectives of the High-level side events

    The purpose of the workshop is to (i) strengthen participants’ capacities to effectively engage men as gender equality proponents within the HIV response amid COVID19 and (ii) stimulate networking for collective action to accelerate a gendered HIV response with men and boys actively engaged. Its objectives include:

    • In the midst of COVID-19, improve knowledge and skills for engaging men and boys in localized HIV prevention, treatment, and care programs that are gender-normative and resilient.
    • Have structured dialogue on the major political issues facing the global, regional and national response to HIV.
    • To secure a commitment from religious and traditional leaders to use their platform to promote uptake of services and safer practices
    • To promote a multi-sectoral approach to the AIDS response through partnerships with key stakeholders and community gatekeepers.
    • Catalyse shared learning, evidence and research, good practices and chart a new way forward in HIV programming for men and young boys and share evidence-based learning on how to improve men’s access to HIV services.
    • To establish the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing HIV/AIDS services 
    1. Finding the Balance and Accelerating the update of HIV services: the role of Religious and Traditional Leaders in HIV response.
    • Date: 07 December 2021
    • Time: 11:00 am-13:00 Southern African Standard Time
    • Registration Link: https://bit.ly/3phjyBB 
    1. Amplifying voices and making advocacy work: A discussion between policymakers and differently abled women. 
    • Date: 09 December 2021
    • Time: 14:00-16:00 noon Southern African Standard Time
    • Registration Link: https://bit.ly/3dhluUY 

    More Information

    For media enquiries and to obtain interviews, please contact:

    Note to editors

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

    MenEngage Africa is part of a global alliance of organisations that engage men and boys to achieve gender equality, promote health, reduce violence and to question and address the structural barriers to achieving gender equality. The alliance consists of 22 country networks spread across East, West, Central and Southern Africa. MEA members work collectively toward advancing gender justice, human rights and social justice in key thematic areas including Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender-based violence (GBV) & HIV prevention, Child Rights and Positive Parenting and in promoting peace on the continent.

  • MenEngage Africa observes 16 Days of Activism

    The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that begins on November 25th, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and ends on December 10th, Human Rights Day. This is an opportunity for us all to reaffirm our commitment to ending gender-based violence and hold one another accountable.

    Gender-based violence (GBV) is a grave human rights violation as well as a severe health and safety concern. Women and girls mostly likely to be subjected to sexual or physical violence during their lifetime. Despite constitutions and legislative safeguards enacted by African governments, gender and sexual orientation-based violence persists at alarming rates.

    According to the UNFPA, the East and Southern Africa region has high rates of sexual violence against women and girls. In seven countries, around 20 per cent of those aged 15 to 24 years reported they had experienced sexual violence from an intimate partner. Sexual violence against early adolescents aged 15 years and below is highest in the conflict and post-conflict countries of the DRC, Mozambique, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

    Given Africa’s scourge of gender-based violence, it is critical that civil society organisations, government institutions, and private entities work together to Orange the world: End violence against women now. In a continent where women’s and girls’ rights are constantly violated, it is crucial that we demand justice and engage our leaders in implementing laws that protect women and prohibit practices that oppress women and girls.

    For years, men have reaped the benefits of patriarchy and its senseless foundation. It is therefore vital to engage men and boys to end gender-based violence (GBV). Female Genital Mutation (FGM) and child marriage are common practices on our continent. Despite the fact that these practices are illegal in other parts of Africa, they are still rampant in our society. 

    Female genital mutilation (FGM) and cutting remains common in some East African countries. The prevalence of FGM is as high as 97.9% in Somalia and 93.1% in Djibouti. Even Eritrea, Sudan, and Ethiopia report very high prevalence of FGM.

    Many countries in East and Southern Africa have very high GBV rates in Sub-Saharan Africa, with preliminary reports from some countries indicating that the incidence has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the data, more than 40% of women in Burundi, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe reported violence by an intimate partner prior to the pandemic, while nearly 30% of respondents in Uganda, Zambia, Burundi, and Kenya reported violence by current or previous partners in the previous 12 months. 

    In South Africa we have high levels of GBVF. The recent crime statistics released by the minister of police indicate that sexual related violence including rape, GBVF are very high. This horrifying report is released just on the eve of the 16 Days of Activism indicating the massive challenge that still confronts our society. We have the National Strategic Plan on GBVF signed up by the President almost two years ago now. It has laid an important foundation for a comprehensive response to the challenge of GBVF. The implementation is a bit slow, but the foundations have been laid and we trust that the implementation will pick soon to turn the tide against GBVF. 

    The UN Orange campaign is very important in keeping the focus on this matter globally. As Sonke and MenEngage Africa we support this initiative cognizant of its importance in mobilising all of us in society to be engaged in all efforts to turn the tide against GBVF. The call for 365 days of no violence against women and children is an important call that must be enhanced in all our interventions. 

    The COVID-19 pandemic and Gender based violence.

    The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated gender-based violence against women and girls in Africa. It has shed a light on existing gender inequalities and has also seen a sharp increase in violence against women and girls especially domestic abuse. 

    Women, particularly those who lost their jobs and earnings as a result of the pandemic and became completely dependent on their husbands or partners, and girls who were confined in their homes with no access to protection and treatment services faced increased levels of sexual and physical domestic violence.

    HIV/AIDS is another factor that continues to disproportionately affect women and girls. While the pandemic was at its peak, people living with HIV and AIDS, WHO’s report confirms that HIV infection is a significant independent risk factor for both severe and critical COVID-19 presentation at hospital admission and in-hospital mortality. This meant that women were at a high risk of dying. Women and girls had difficulty accessing SRHR and HIV services during the hard lockdowns, putting us back in our fight against HIV/AIDS.

    MenEngage Africa will continue advocating for and promoting fundamental human and women’s rights, including engaging community leaders, faith leaders, traditional and government officials to challenge and address harmful practices, calling for an end to sexual and gender-based violence, working with decision-makers to advocate for better policies that affect women’s well-being, and collaborating with other organisations whose mandate addresses women’s rights.

    Media Enquiries

    For media enquiries, contact:

    Bafana Khumalo, Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za  or +27-82-578-4479

    Mabel, Regional  Programs co- Unit Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, Secretariat of MenEngage Africa Alliance: mabel@genderjustice.org.za  or +256 752 317300

    Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.za or 0739882870.

    Notes to editors

    MenEngage Africa is part of a global alliance of organisations that engage men and boys to achieve gender equality, promote health, reduce violence and to question and address the structural barriers to achieving gender equality. The alliance consists of 22 country networks spread across East, West, Central and Southern Africa. MEA members work collectively toward advancing gender justice, human rights and social justice in key thematic areas including Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender-based violence (GBV) & HIV prevention, Child Rights and Positive Parenting and in promoting peace on the continent.

  • We mourn the loss of our colleague Khopotso Bodibe

    We mourn the loss of our colleague Khopotso Bodibe

    Khopotso Bodibe

    It is with much sadness that Sonke communicates the loss of Khopotso Bodibe who passed away on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.

    Khopotso joined Sonke as a Communications Associate in Sonke’s Communications and Strategic Information Unit in 2015. In 2018, he was promoted to RPU – Media & Communications Specialist.

    Khopotso spent 10 years as a specialist health journalist, covering mostly HIV and AIDS in South Africa, working as a print and predominantly radio reporter for health-e news where he also was the radio unit editor.

    As producer and presenter of “Living with AIDS,” a five-minute weekly slot broadcast on SAfm’s AM LIVE, he was regarded as one of the foremost journalists to have covered the subject of HIV and AIDS in South Africa.

    Through the slot, he was able to bring home to many South Africans information about various aspects of AIDS, including what scientists were doing to find new ways of responding to the challenge locally and abroad, how AIDS was affecting the economy, and the impact of the epidemic on individuals, families, communities and society as a whole.

    At Sonke, Khopotso managed communications for the MenEngage Africa (MEA) an Alliance of organisations working on positive masculinities and ending harmful practices in the region. In this portfolio once more Khopotso excelled in communicating the work of the MEA and coordinating all media with external stakeholders. In addition to this Khopotso increased MEA’s social media presence and successfully developed the MEA website.

    Khopotso was much-loved and respected by his colleagues and by our partners across the continent. He was an upstanding person who not only supported his colleagues but also the MenEngage Africa Alliance where he has built strong partnerships with MEA partners. As an organisation we are struggling to process Khopotso’s untimely passing. Khopotso had a presence – when he walked into the room you knew he had arrived; he had a larger than life personality and an infectious smile that we will always remember him by. These are our only comforts for now as we try to come to terms with his untimely passing.

    Our heartfelt condolences to his family, his sister Alita Nonceba Mahe and his nieces and nephews. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this very sad time in your lives.

  • The slow progress in the ratification and implementation of the Maputo Protocol has had negative consequences on woman and girls

    Since its adoption in 2003, the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, known as the Maputo Protocol, has contributed in shifting the trajectory on the promotion and protection of woman’s rights in Africa.

    Despite its progressive protections, to date, only 42 countries have signed and ratified the Maputo Protocol. Of those 42, fewer still have taken the necessary steps to align their legal frameworks, policies, and budgetary commitments to the Articles of the Protocol.

    The Maputo Protocol guarantees comprehensive rights to woman, including the right to take part in the political process, improved autonomy in the exercise and realization of their sexual and reproductive health rights, and an end to female genital mutilation (FGM).

    In spite of these progressive commitments, the reality of woman’s lives on the continent is divorced from the legislative framework as evidenced by the lack of political will of Member States to live up to their commitments to ratify, domesticate and implement the Maputo Protocol.

    The slow progress in the ratification and implementation of the Protocol has had negative consequences on woman and girls, which have also been exacerbated by the outbreak of the novel COVID-19 pandemic.

    The reality on the African continent is that woman continue to be disproportionately infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. In Sub-Saharan Africa, nearly 60% of those infected are women. Of the 2.3 million refugees and internally displaced people on the continent the majority are woman and children. Woman and children across the continent have also been subject to increased levels of poverty, gender-based violence, harmful social and cultural practices, hunger and unemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine inequality is set to further exacerbate the precarious conditions that women are forced to live in across the continent.

    We note with concern the lack of appropriate and meaningful administrative and policy mechanisms that address the increased and continued vulnerability of marginalised woman on the Continent especially those living in conflict zones, rural areas, in urban poverty, with disabilities and affected and infected by HIV.

    We further note, institutionalisation of patriarchy within political decision-making structures, traditional and cultural bodies and religious institutions exacerbate woman’s vulnerability.

    We call upon the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to compel member states that are still to ratify the Protocol to do so and, for the member states that have ratified the Maputo Protocol, to domesticate and implement the protocol as a matter of urgency.

    For media queries contact:

    Given Sigauqwe, Sonke CSI Manager, 0739882870 or given@genderjustice.org.za.

    Masana Ndinga-Kanga, Sonke Programmes Director, masana@genderjustice.org.za.

  • Government needs to address the structural and socio-economic issues underlying the unrest and make provisions for the implementation of the basic income grant as a matter of urgency

    Sonke Gender Justice condemns the latest escalation of violence and indiscriminate looting happening in various parts of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. According to reports, as of 13 July 2021 the number of fatalities had risen to 72 and police have made 1234 arrests. 

    The myriad of under lying causes reflect deep socio-economic frustrations that have not been addressed by government at local, provincial and national level but instead South Africans have been subjected to brazen corruption and looting of public resources. 

    Sonke has noted with grave concern the incidents of gender-based violence, xenophobia, ethnic conflict, and underlining acts of racism that have erupted during this unrest. We know that it is during times of conflict that womxn and girls suffer disproportionally because of how existing inequalities are magnified, and social networks break down, thus making them more vulnerable to abuse, and sexual violence.

    We have also noted the increasing numbers of young people involved in this unrest. Large numbers of unemployed youth, whose economic vulnerability has been compromised and exploited by those who have resorted to violence and looting.

    Of even greater concern is that this unrest has been unfolding amidst South Africa’s COVID-19 third wave and has severely undermined ongoing efforts to thwart off the spread of this deadly pandemic. 

    There are reports indicating that several vaccination centers have closed and been unable to operate amongst the chaos thus threatening the health and well-being of thousands of people. 

    We have noted with serious concern the injury and loss of lives, and the damage to property which will no doubt have far-reaching and long-lasting implications on an already stressed society. Many Black owned businesses have been severely affected; livelihoods have been destroyed. There will be more job losses, prices on basic commodities. Thus, a devastating impact all round.

    We have witnessed a serious failure of the police to successfully prevent and respond to the increasing incidents of violence and looting. The police service has been found wanting and overwhelmed. The deployment of the army must be to protect communities by acting as a peace-keeping force and not to exercise brute force. 

    The use of military personnel to police citizens in a democratic state is becoming commonplace of late and this is worrisome as soldiers are not necessarily trained to interact with civilians. It was only last year, Collins Khosa and several others senselessly their lives at the hands of the SANDF.  

    The failure of the SAPS to contain the situation has also resulted in communities and individuals ‘arming’ themselves for the purposes of ‘preventing looting’ and in many instances protecting their families and homes, a move which if not monitored closely could also potentially escalate the existing violence. The right to protest peacefully is accepted as an important instrument of social and political change. But this must be carried out within the ambits of the law. 

    We strongly urge the government of South Africa to:

    1. To monitor the actions of the police and army and ensure that no undue and disproportionate force is used in attempts to maintain order in line with the UN Best Practices on Policing and as a peace-keeping force. 
    2. We call on leaders to go to the ground and engage with communities to ensure that there is lowering of tensions. This will also require that leaders desist from using inflammatory language that heightens tensions.
    3. Pay particular attention to the structural and socio-economic issues underlying this spate of violence and to make provisions for the implementation of the Basic Income Grant as a matter of urgency to mitigate the huge poverty challenges confronting many in our society.
    4. For the State to be proactive in rolling out access to food, water and security, as per the provisions of the Maputo Protocol, with specific attention given to vulnerable members of society and ensuring that military mobilization is put in place to respond to food shortages and rising levels of hunger. 
    5. Be more pro-active rather than reactive when dealing with crises of this nature and to take reasonable and adequate steps to protect the lives, peace, and security of its citizens.

    For media enquiries, contact:

    1. Bafana Khumalo, Co-Director, Sonke Gender Justice: bafana@genderjustice.org.za 
    2. Kayan Leung Policy and Development Unit Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, kayan@genderjustice.org.za  
    3. Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.za or 0739882870.

  • The eSwatini government’s violent response to peaceful pro-democracy protests poses a threat to the fundamental right to life and infringes on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly enshrined in Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

    We are deeply concerned by the senseless police brutality and state-sanctioned violence in eSwatini. The eSwatini government’s violent response to peaceful pro-democracy protests poses a threat to the fundamental right to life and infringes on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly enshrined in Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights – to which Swaziland is a signatory.

    Protests erupted in May 2021 following the unexplained death of Thabani Nkomonye, a final year law student. Protestors are calling for reforms within the government. The eSwatini military and police have responded to the protests with excessive violence resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. 

    The use of brutal force against peaceful protestors has become part of the fabric of the African political realm.  Both in the past and present, many African governments have resorted to the use of violence to discourage citizens from seeking political reform and stable democracies.

    The Kingdom of eSwatini is a member of the United Nations and the African Union. It has ratified numerous UN Human Rights Conventions thereby making binding international commitments to adhere to the standards laid down in these documents. Therefore, it is prudent that African leaders take a clear stance on this human rights violation and ensure that the eSwatini government refrains from the use of excessive force against protestors and hold it accountable for the brazen violation of human rights.

    “The situation is very volatile at the moment, we need the international community to speak out against the human rights violations taking place in eSwatini”, said Rev. Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director of Sonke Gender Justice. “The people of eSwatini have tried on numerous occasions to meaningfully engage with the ruling elite, however many a times, these efforts are met with violent repression. We urge the international stakeholders to intervene before the situation deteriorates further.”

    We appeal to the AU and all Governments within Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union (AU) to be proactive and condemn these repressive acts in the strongest terms and call on the government of Eswatini to respect the rights of its citizens. In a time when the world is also facing a global pandemic, if left unchecked, the violence will severely exacerbate gender inequality putting women and girls at a disadvantage.

    We also note the reports on the government of eSwatini shutting down/disrupting internet access across the country. This is a major infringement on the people of eSwatini’s rights to not only freely express themselves but to also engage in discussions around democracy. 

    In this time of popular uprisings, it is critical that the government prioritizes hearing the grievances of its populations and doing everything in its power to protect the freedoms and lives of citizens.

    For media enquiries, contact:

    1. Bafana Khumalo, Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or +27-82-578-4479
    2. Mpiwa Mangwiro, Regional Campaigns & Advocacy Specialist, Sonke Gender Justice, Secretariat of MenEngage Africa Alliance: mpiwa@genderjustice.org.za or +27-82-480-2223.
    3. Given Sigauqwe, CSI Manager, Sonke Gender Justice, given@genderjustice.org.zaor 0739882870.

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation.

    MenEngage Africa is part of a global alliance of organisations that engage men and boys to achieve gender equality, promote health, reduce violence and to question and address the structural barriers to achieving gender equality. The alliance consists of 22 country networks spread across East, West, Central and Southern Africa. MEA members work collectively toward advancing gender justice, human rights and social justice in key thematic areas including Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender-based violence (GBV) & HIV prevention, Child Rights and Positive Parenting and in promoting peace on the continent.

  • Sonke Gender Justice calls on the South African government to unequivocally stand with the people of Palestine and halt all diplomatic ties with Israel

    The world is once again witnessing another cycle of violence and destruction of Palestine and its people at the hands of the racist Israeli state and for this reason, Sonke Gender Justice (Sonke) is calling on the South African government to unequivocally stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and halt all diplomatic ties with Israel.

    The present killings started with the aim of Israel to occupy East Jerusalem by brutally storming into the Al Aqsa Mosque at a time when a huge number of people were praying at the Mosque during the month of Ramadan.

    Although the South African government has condemned the violence, this is simply not enough when the government continues to do business with the state of Israeli. A grave violation of human rights is intensifying by the day, half-hearted and ambiguous condemnation in the form of statements when people are losing their lives is meaningless. Instead, this is the opportune moment for effective and meaningful solutions. 

    The Israeli State has gotten away with the use of brute force on the people of Palestine with no consequences for years. Sonke condemns in the strongest terms possible the latest act of violent aggression carried out by Israeli armed forces.

    World leaders can no longer turn a blind eye to the human rights violations in Palestine as this is becoming an anticipated and annual occurrence. Therefore, Sonke is also calling on the South African government and other world leaders to ensure that the State of Israel is taken to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to be held accountable and ensure that Israel’s discriminatory policies against Palestinians are abolished. 

    Lastly, we send our unwavering solidarity and support to the people of Palestine in this moment of crisis.

    #FreePalestine

    For media enquiries contact:

    1. Bafana Khumalo, Sonke’s Co-Executive Director, 0825784479 or bafana@genderjustice.org.za.
    2. Given Sigauqwe, Sonke’s Communication & Strategic Information Manager, 0739882870 or given@genderjustice.org.za.