Sonke Gender Justice

News Category: Sonke News

  • MATI 2024 Alumni, Enele Zulu reflects on the Power to Youth (PtY) regional learning and celebration festival

    MATI 2024 Alumni, Enele Zulu reflects on the Power to Youth (PtY) regional learning and celebration festival

    ‘The event did not only showcase the milestone of the PtY project, but I also witnessed the future of the youths taking space in advocacy matters.’ Zulu, MATI 2024 Alumni.

    The Power to Youth (PtY) regional learning and celebration festival, which took place at Ndere Cultural Centre in Kampala, Uganda, from 21 to 22 August, was a remarkable engagement with young change makers setting trends to lead and take ownership of their own development needs. The event gathered over 200 young champions, health professionals, government officials and community leaders from various regions. It was two days of appreciating the enormous work of young people in advancing sexual and reproductive health and gender equality in their community interventions.The gathering was a testament to the unwavering innovation and commitment of young people who have been driving change in their communities.

    Zulu reflects on four key outcomes  that stood out for her

    • Sharing and learning from collective best practices, challenges and impactful stories from the project’s implementation of youth advocates, community practioners and leaders, academics and representatives from non-governmental organisations.
    • Motivating youth-led initiatives to inspire continued action for youth SRH and gender equality.
    • Celebrating the milestones and successes achieved by youth champions, peer educators and partner organizations.
    • Broader commitments from stakeholders including government, health providers, community leaders and donors to sustain and scale up the project”

    Highlights from key speakers such as  Sophia Nabukenya, She leads Program; Bafana Khumalo, Co-executive Director of Sonke Gender Justice and Joyce Nakato, Team leader at Uganda Youth and Adolescent Health Forum  commended the project for its youth inclusion approach, the never-ending spirit of unity to advocate for visible change in SRH matters. They also appreciated the resilience of young people and the importance of leveraging youth innovation and determination to accelerate sustainable development goals.

    “The future is not waiting for us, we are shaping it right here, right now, let’s dream big ,speak boldly and celebrate everything that makes the #PowerToYouth program memorable and unstoppable.” As Co-executive Director of Sonke Gender Justice,  Bafana Khumalo remarked during his opening address at the festival.The heart of the event was powerful stories of change videos from the youth champions who joined the project with the intention of shaping and revamping their lives for the better. Some of the key factors from the learning stories were the males as allies of changing the narrative of gender roles, dismantling harmful practices such as child marriages and intimate partner violence within the home setting.

    The festival also held panel discussions, which emphasized the importance of integrated approaches and meaningful youth participation in decision-making spaces. A dynamic panel featuring youth advocates and implementers, representatives from local government and the Department of Health portrayed a solidified network of partners committed to the PtY project. The dialogue fostered a meaningful discussion on how different generations and communities can amplify the youth voice and agency.

    The celebration segment was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the visible determination and passion displayed by the youth and partners involved. A gallery of the project’s significant impact of empowered youth, shifted social norms, strengthened systems and enhanced collaboration was showcased.

    The award ceremony  laid a strong foundation for continued progress and recognition of the noticeable work by the PtY  were given to focal program country  team members of the Power To Youth Uganda, Sonke  Gender Justice staff, community stakeholders and leaders  working to promote meaningful youth engagement  The regional learning event was a powerful affirmation that investing in youth is the cornerstone of a prosperous society.

     ‘Beyond the celebration that took place in the event, the program was a rich learning ecosystem from peer to peer learning, to measurable indicators of success in the inclusion of youth to lead their own development and changing narratives,’ Zulu concluded.

  • Sonke takes to Cape High Court in GBV march

    Sonke takes to Cape High Court in GBV march

    Over eight hundred  community members and civil society organizations  took to the streets on the 18th July 2025, in a demonstration against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, in Cape Town.The march, led by Sonke Gender Justice in partnership with the Western Cape Men’s Sector, Movement of Change for Social Justice, Baphi Abafazi and People’s Health Movement, among other organisations,  called attention to the systemic failures of the justice system and the urgent need to protect women, children, and all survivors of violence. 

    Participants came from communities across Cape Town including  Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Delft, Philippi, Gugulethu, Nyanga, Kraaifontein, Maitland, Langa, and Wynberg, reflecting widespread concern over the surge  of GBV and the government’s slow response to addressing the crimes. 

    The march culminated in the handover of a memorandum to  the Regional Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority  in the Western Cape, Eric Ndabazalila. 

    The memorandum outlined key concerns, including long delays in GBV prosecutions and the lack of adequate institutional support for survivors. A key case highlighted was on that Sonke has been monitoring, that of Ziyanda Ndabeni, a young woman raped and murdered in 2016, whose case only concluded nine years later, exemplifying the devastating consequences of justice delayed. 

    Memorandum demands included:  

    • The deployment of additional skilled prosecutors and investigators to the NPA. 
    • Increased support and staffing for the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs (SOCA) unit and Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs). 
    • Strengthening of the Office of Witness Protection to ensure the safety of vulnerable witnesses. 
    • The implementation of a “no Bail” policy for rape and domestic violence accused persons. 

    Ndabazalila accepted the memorandum, which urged the  NPA to respond to on or before the 18 August 2025. “This march was more than a protest, it was a public demand for accountability, safety, and justice. Survivors and communities are tired of excuses. We demand a justice system that works for all’’ said Sikhangele Mabulu, Sonke’s Men’s Wellness Centre Coordinator.

    The march reaffirmed that communities will continue to mobilise until real change is achieved and the rights and dignity of all survivors are respected and upheld. 

  • Sonke leads groundbreaking men’s dialogue in Western Cape’s provincial parliament

    Sonke leads groundbreaking men’s dialogue in Western Cape’s provincial parliament

     On 15 May 2025, Sonke Gender Justice, in partnership with the Western Cape Men’s Sector and the South African National AIDS Council, hosted a groundbreaking Provincial Men’s Dialogue at the Western Cape Provincial Parliament under the theme “Better Man for Tomorrow.’’ The dialogue brought together provincial leaders, religious and cultural leaders, youth, and civil society to address the root causes of Gender-Based Violence, rising HIV infections, and the critical role of men in building safer and healthier communities. The event served as a call to action urging men to reflect, take responsibility, and actively contribute to change. 

    Men from different walks of life, joined by civil society organizations, traditional and religious leaders, and youth from Manenburg and Gugulethu High School, shared personal testimonies and powerful appeals for accountability. They spoke about prevalent issues in their communities such as GBV, drug abuse, gang violence, and the silence that allows injustice to persist. The youth who shared their experiences reminded attendees  of the urgent need to create safe spaces, to equip boys with knowledge and tools, and to uplift the next generation before violence takes root. Speakers emphasized the urgent need to empower boys through education, sport, skills development, and early intervention. The Deputy Speaker  of Parliament, Reagen Ivan Allen, emphasized that “a child in sport is a child out of trouble.’’ The forum also addressed systemic issues such as cultural abuse, institutional accountability, and the lack of a support structure for vulnerable men and boys 

    Sonke reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the ongoing Men’s Sector activities and advancing the “Better Man for Tomorrow” campaign. A key outcome of the dialogue was the agreement to expand these conversations across all districts, with a focus on youth development,  prevention, and government accountability for delayed justice in GBV cases. Sonke reiterated that men must not only speak out but also act.  

    ‘’Being a better man for tomorrow means being a better father, a better partner, and an active participant in community change,  self-reflection and stepping up with integrity and responsibility is also very important,’’ said Sikhangele Mabulu, Sonke’s Men’s Wellness Centre Coordinator. 

     Culture and religion, which are often used as a shield for harmful behaviors, were called into question, with a firm declaration that there is no excuse for abuse. The meeting made a call  for churches to be regulated and for traditional practices to align with health and safety standards, protecting children from exploitation. 

    Participants left the dialogue with a renewed sense of urgency and purpose, recognizing that change requires more than talk. It demands consistent action, community collaboration, and government accountability. Among the key takeaways was the commitment to replicate these conversations across all districts, with a special focus on empowering the boy child.  “The dialogue also resolved to push for school holiday camps, men’s wellness campaigns, and justice for postponed GBV cases that too often result in repeat offences’’ Mabulu said. 

    As Sonke continues to host and support men’s sector activities in the province, this dialogue marked a significant step forward. It was a reminder  that while the road to justice and healing is long, it begins with collective will. The time is now for men to rise, not in dominance, but in dignity,to build and be part of a community where safety, respect and accountability define what it means to be a man. 

  • Empowering youth-led accountability and collaboration for gender justice in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the Eastern Cape. 

    Empowering youth-led accountability and collaboration for gender justice in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the Eastern Cape. 

    The Generation Gender (GenG) Coalition officially launched its 2024 Social Audit Report. This follows an in-depth audit process conducted last year across six key GenG implementation sites in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the Eastern Cape. The social audit brings to light critical insights into how young people experience and engage with gender justice services and mechanisms in their communities. 

    The social audit was driven by a participatory approach that centred the voices and lived experiences of young people, particularly girls, young women, and gender-diverse youth, across sites including  Inanda and Mthwalume (KZN), Orange Farm and Tembisa (Gauteng), and Butterworth and Mthatha (Eastern Cape). The process gathered community perspectives on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, service delivery, youth participation in governance, and access to justice. 

    Key Outcomes and Findings 

    The report highlights several systemic barriers that continue to hinder meaningful youth participation in local governance structures and the delivery of essential gender justice services. These include: 

    • Most respondents (63%) across the target provinces were unaware of who their local ward councillor was. 
    • There is a significant gap in information dissemination regarding Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), with many respondents, particularly in Gauteng (54.3%), having never heard of them. 
    • Respondents in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Gauteng (GP) expressed a higher degree of displeasure and frustration due to a lack of service delivery and “empty promises” made during community meetings, leading to skepticism about their effectiveness. 
    • Youth participation in decision-making processes was perceived as minimal and token by many respondents, while younger individuals highlighted socioeconomic barriers like unemployment and lack of resources as hindrances to their involvement. 
    • A recurring theme, especially in KZN and GP, was the call for local leaders to be held accountable and for residents’ concerns to be addressed, indicating a lack of feedback and accountability mechanisms in IDP meetings. 

    As part of the report launch, the GenG Coalition convened a series of dialogues and knowledge-sharing platforms with youth activists, community stakeholders, and local government decision-makers from all six sites. This sought to reflect on the findings, identify opportunities for stronger partnerships, and map out a clear path forward for improved service delivery and youth inclusion in decision-making processes. 

    “The Generation G social audit report was enabled by youth reps within the Generation G key sites. It is a move towards active citizenry to hold duty bearers at the local government level accountable to address GBV”, said Namuma Mulindi, Sonke’s Policy and Advocacy Specialist.  

    Read the full report here  

  • Youth leading the way on comprehensive sexuality education through research 

    Youth leading the way on comprehensive sexuality education through research 

    From 28 April to 2 May 2025, youth leaders and researchers from Ethiopia, Malawi, and Uganda gathered in Addis Ababa for an intensive five-day training on research methodology. Organised by Sonke Gender Justice under the SRHR4All project, the training aimed to equip Youth Participatory Action Researchers (YPAR) with the knowledge and tools needed to conduct high-quality, ethical, and impactful research on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) within their communities. 

     The training brought together 15 youth researchers from Malawi, Uganda and Ethiopia, SRHR4All project leads, and expert facilitators from Sonke Gender Justice, UNESCO, and the Centre of Human Rights at the University of Pretoria.  

    Throughout the five days, participants engaged in sessions designed to deepen their understanding of the principles of CSE and its role in youth wellbeing, explore research design through both qualitative and quantitative methods, examine ethical considerations in participatory and sensitive research, and gain practical experience using digital tools such as KoboCollect for data collection. The workshop also supported the development of country-level research plans and protocols to guide upcoming YPAR studies. 

    With growing demands for youth-centred and evidence-based approaches to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), this training marked a critical step in preparing youth to lead community-based research and advocacy for inclusive, rights-based CSE. 

     “It’s important for young people to participate in research because it enables them to take ownership of the issues and the necessary reforms. When they have the findings, they’re equipped with information they can use for evidence-based advocacy. This empowers them to express themselves effectively when engaging with CSE policies and addressing their real needs on the ground. I feel this is something truly in-depth and meaningful,” said Coreen Mwabaze, youth researcher from Uganda. 

    CSE is more than just a school subject. It is a human rights-based, age-appropriate approach to learning about bodies, relationships, consent, and wellbeing. When implemented well, CSE helps young people make informed choices, delay sexual initiation, and reduce risks such as unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

    Yet, many young people across Africa still face barriers to accessing quality sexuality education. These include harmful social norms, restrictive policies, and limited resources. That’s why understanding how CSE is implemented, and how it can be improved is a key priority for youth advocates and researchers. 

    Facilitators used participatory techniques such as group discussions, simulations, role-play, quizzes, and peer learning to ensure the experience was engaging and empowering. The sessions were designed to reflect the lived realities of youth researchers and emphasized inclusivity, including the active participation of young people with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds. 

    “Young people must lead this research, not only collect data, but shaping the questions and using the evidence to advocate for our rights,” Yanga Fadana,  Research Monitoring Evaluatiion and Learning Coordinator at Sonke Gender Justice concluded.

  • Donor Corner: Austrian Development Agency’s gender-responsive and climate-informed GBV programme

    Donor Corner: Austrian Development Agency’s gender-responsive and climate-informed GBV programme

    Sonke Gender Justice is thankful for the continued support and investment by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) in gender justice across Southern Africa. With ADA’s contribution, Sonke successfully implemented Phase 1 of the MenEngage Africa (MEA) programme in Malawi, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

    MEA mobilises men and boys to actively drive and contribute to gender equality, which includes challenging harmful masculinities, taking active roles in GBV prevention, community mobilisation, positive parenting, peacebuilding, and social norm transformation. With ADA’s support, Sonke equipped its partners with technical expertise in movement-building, advocacy, media engagement, evidence-based policy development, and knowledge management.

    Over the three years of implementation, Sonke Gender Justice through MEA engaged traditional and religious leaders as champions of gender justice and the sub-grants of the programme to local partners enabled grassroots-led action. In addition, MEA contributed to policy reforms at both national and regional levels, including the SADC GBV Model Law. The MenCare parenting model and community dialogues on SRHR and gender equality effectively contributed to transformation shifts in the attitudes and behaviours of men and boys.

    The partnership with ADA provided a critical foundation to advance gender equity and through the lessons learnt from first phase a potential second phase is on the horizon, which would scale and deepen the achievements of phase 1. Building on the momentum of Phase 1, Sonke is actively exploring opportunities to continue and expand this work through an initiative titled “Building resilient communities: Strengthening local systems for gender-responsive and climate-informed GBV Action.”

    Should Sonke secure the required funding, phase 2 will more deliberately integrate climate justice into gender-responsive interventions. It aims to institutionalise feminist accountability within local governance systems, empower women’s rights and youth-led organisations through a three-tier sub-granting model. This will be complemented through digital learning hubs to sustain learning and advocacy beyond the project cycle.

    This envisioned continuation seeks to reach over 4,000 direct beneficiaries and more than 10,000 more through regionally coordinated campaigns and community action. It remains rooted in intersectionality, sustainability, and local leadership, ensuring that efforts to prevent GBV and promote gender equality are owned by the communities they serve.

    We thank ADA for its longstanding partnership and trust. Their support in Phase 1 has laid a meaningful foundation for future impact. Together, we are shaping a future in which justice, safety, and dignity are accessible to all, regardless of gender or geography.

  • Strategic partner forum highlights shift in the funding landscape 

    Strategic partner forum highlights shift in the funding landscape 

    Sonke recently brought together donors, implementing partners and private sector allies for a hybrid Strategic Partner Forum, on the 13th of June to reflect on the current donor funding landscape. The gathering took place at a critical time when the global political climate has become challenging, affecting especially the non-governmental organization sector.  

    Recent global shifts, including changes in United States foreign policy and budget allocations have led to cuts in USAID funding. These reductions have affected many international development and health initiatives, especially those focusing on gender justice, human rights, and HIV/AIDS prevention. Many civil society organizations that previously depended on USAID for core or project-specific funding are now facing serious financial instability. This has led to the closure of some organizations while others are undergoing restructuring to remain operational. Sonke is one of the affected organizations and had to shut down its operations of the Khutlo project in Lesotho, fully funded by USAID.  

    Acting chairperson of the Board Dr Mfanozelwe Shozi reflected on this ‘’We meet at a precarious moment for human rights and gender transformation. The emerging geopolitical developments signal a difficult road ahead. The prospect of a second Trump administration comes with challenges, particularly for issues related to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and gender justice. Again, countries that were once strong allies in advancing progressive policies are now embracing more conservative approaches, and this leads to the rollback of our hard-won gains in the sector.” 

    Presenting on the state of gender in Africa and the regional funding landscape, Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo, Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, discussed the emerging trends, shifts in donor priorities, and funding gaps. “So, while investment and development assistance has increased in some areas, funding remains fragmented, unpredictable and uneven, particularly when it comes to Social Justice, Gender Equity and grassroots driven work,” she said.  

    “Gender and social justice remain underfunded despite global commitment funding, for gender equality and transformative justice. We’ve seen that less than one percent of gender focused international aid goes directly to women-led organizations in Africa. Short term project-based funding is what’s available, which comes with burdensome reporting requirements and a lack of flexible support that makes it difficult for organizations to build reserves that can enable them to continue doing the work when donor funding dries up,’’ Ncube-Nkomo adds.  

    Weighing in on some of the possible solutions for the challenging landscape, Nicky Le Roux, Senior Program Officer at Ford Foundation, reflected on the importance of core funding in ensuring organizational sustainability. “For us, flexible core funding is key as a basis for supporting organizations. We believe it empowers them to adapt, to innovate, and I think it hasn’t been even more critical than now when we’ve seen the funding landscape shifting,” she said. 

    A representative of one of Sonke’s implementing partners was the Amaxhosa Queen Vuyokazi Nonzuzo Sigcawu on behalf of the AmaXhosa Royal Kingdom. Sonke has partnered with the Kingdom on the Inkanyezi project funded by Global Affairs Canada, implemented in the  Amathole district of the Eastern Cape. Representing the Queen, her Personal Assistant, Mbuyi Kasana, shared a perspective on the realities and the challenges faced by communities in the province. 

    “We are facing numerous cases of Gender-Based Violence in our community. We’ve dealt with heartbreaking incidents, including women being murdered by their partners, and others being ostracised by the community simply for speaking out against abuse.’’ Kasana lamented.  

    She said the Queen has had to intervene in some of the cases through the Queen’s Desk programme where they help survivors of GBV, as well as through the Boy Child Campaign, in which they engage young boys from eight years upwards to help them challenge harmful norms from an early age. She added that the Queen often encounters resistance from some chiefs and men in the community, making the work even more difficult. 

    “During one of the Inkanyezi project workshops Queen Sigcawu invited her fellow queens to attend, but participation was limited. Some attended on the first day, to never come back. This is possibly due to resistance from their husbands, who may have feared that the women would become more empowered, and so we ask for Sonke to engage more with men to change their mindsets,” she urged. 

    The forum also heard from the Co-executive director of Sonke, Heather Van Niekerk who shared the findings of the recent organizational donor survey. The survey reaffirmed Sonke’s position as a trusted and impactful partner. “100% of respondents rated Sonke’s impact as either “Good” or “Very Good”, with an average weighted score of 3.6 out of 4. For us, this indicates recognition of Sonke’s relevance and positioning as a leading actor in the gender justice and human rights space,” emphasized Van Niekerk. Moving forward, Sonke intends to regularly host the Strategic Partner Forum, to sustain relationships with its partners. 

  • Sonke Co-executive director honoured for outstanding advocacy against GBV

    Sonke Co-executive director honoured for outstanding advocacy against GBV

    It has been a proud moment since the Co-Executive Director of Sonke Gender Justice, Bafana Khumalo ,received a prestigious award for his relentless contributions in championing the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa. The award was presented during the 4th Annual GBV Awards organised by Tshegofatsa Rona Welfare & Community Organization. The event theme, ‘Together, We Can Make a Difference,’ highlighted the teamwork and collaborative spirit required to overhaul the prevalence of GBV. It also celebrated Khumalo Bafana’s dedication to fighting GBV and advocating for the dignity of survivors. 

     The event was a platform for insightful engagements on promising practices to combat the prevalence of GBV.  Advocates, activists, and other actors gathered to share their experiences and strategies for advancing gender equality.  

    Khumalo’s commitment to advocacy work has been strategic in accelerating gender equality.  His efforts have not only raised awareness but also inspired action across communities in South Africa and across the African continent to advance a transformative agenda for women, girls and vulnerable groups exposed to violence and other forms of discrimination and marginalisation. Through Sonke, he has been involved in advocacy and activism by strategically engaging with stakeholders across different sectors to set up mechanisms and structures that reinforce the prevention of violence.  Through MenEngage Africa Network, which he was previously the global co-chairperson of, Khumalo has worked with different organisations across the region to tackle the root causes of violence and support the sustainability of community-based organisations that offer direct services and referrals to survivors of GBV. 

     “I am humbled by this award.  It is special to me as it is awarded by a community-based organisation operating on the coalface providing much needed support to women and girls surviving violence and abandoned children needing a home and care.  The award is not just about me. I merely stand on the shoulders of the many committed activists passionate about this work who wake up every day to contribute to efforts that seeks to bring about an alternative world. A world free of all forms of violence and discrimination. A world where all will be treated with dignity and respect. It is this vision that inspires me all the time” Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice said.  

    Despite the progress made in fighting violence against women and girls,  GBV  rates keep skyrocketing in South Africa. This award serves as a reminder to civil society organisations and a call for collective efforts from communities, organisations and governments to join the movement and support initiatives that foster the cause for gender justice. 

  • Sonke leads Gender-Based Violence and Femicide march in Kimberly

    Sonke leads Gender-Based Violence and Femicide march in Kimberly

    Sonke Gender Justice in collaboration with over five hundred supporters and thirty-five Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) partner organisations from across the province took to the streets on the 18th of June in a march against GBVF, to demand police  presence  in communities and a call for a victim-centred approach to combating GBVF.  

    Through this demonstration, stakeholders including Shaine Griqua Advice and Development Centre, Grassroots Edge and Bathopele NGO expressed their disappointment, frustration, and ongoing concern with the handling of GBVF cases in the province.  

    “We are asking for accountability, coordination and leadership on GBVF in the Northern Cape, especially to the poor and marginalized communities on the ground, we also want feedback and response from the memorandum that was handed over to SAPS on the 27 November 2024 in Platfontein,’’ said Sonke Programmes Specialist Fredalene Booysen. 

    “We also call for a more coordinated, victim-centred, and accountable approach to combating GBVF and ensuring access to justice and protection for women and children, including systemic failures, like the closure of the court in Galeshewe in the criminal justice system that obstructs survivors’ access to justice,’’ she adds. 

    Sonke submitted a memorandum to the Office of the Premier, which was a built up from a local community march in Platfontein on 27 November 2024. Although the premier, Dr Zamani Saul was unavailable at the time of the handover, Advisor Zolile Monakali, accepted the memorandum and committed that the office will respond to the demands on the memorandum. 

    Speaking to the media, Shaine Griqua, director of the Shaine Griqua Advice and Development Centre, highlighted the high number of abuse and sexual offence cases that were withdrawn due to a lack of support, also calling for a comprehensive update on the investigation into some of the cases.  

    “We are urging for a satellite police station to be opened in Platfontein. There is no public transport, and rape victims cannot walk 25 kilometres in the dark to report the crime. They are often met with indifference at police stations and risk being raped again on the road. Residents are often left to fend for themselves in the face of escalating violence, gang activity, drug abuse, and domestic abuse,” he said. 

    While Sonke has given the office of the Premier until 30 September to respond to the demands outlined in the memorandum, the march led to a confirmed meeting with the Office of the Premier before the end of June to address the injustices faced by marginalised and vulnerable groups. 

  • Building future changemakers: Eastern Cape youth ambassadors bootcamp

    Building future changemakers: Eastern Cape youth ambassadors bootcamp

    Over one hundred learners and eight educators in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province have been capacitated on tools to advocate for gender equality and social justice in their respective schools and communities. This is through Sonke’s “Eyolutsha leMpumaKapa” youth-led project funded by Kindernothilfe, KNH.  

    Earlier this year, the initiative rolled out four intensive youth ambassadors bootcamps, focusing on promoting gender equality through a Gender Transformative Approach (GTA) as well as understanding Gender-Based Violence laws and policies, with particular focus on the Domestic Violence Act and the Sexual Offences Act.  

    ”Participants explored themes such as gender stereotypes, mental health, LGBTQI+ inclusion especially in sport activities, cyberbullying, substance abuse, and more. These discussions not only raised awareness but also helped dismantle harmful perceptions around masculinity, femininity, and gender expression’’ said Senior trainer Anelisa Jezile.  

    “The discussions also reflected on the power of social media as a tool for awareness and mobilization, challenging the notion that youth are disengaged from societal issues,’ she adds.  

    Adolescents and youth in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and Amathole District have limited opportunities to participate and advocate for their rights. Many are also inadequately informed about their rights and do not know how to claim them. Furthermore, GBV-related policies and laws are not effectively implemented and “translated” in a child-friendly manner at the local level to ensure the protection of children and adolescents from gender-based violence.  

    Through this project, Sonke has developed a safeguarding policy for children and youth, ensuring that the content is age appropriate; descriptive, engaging and easy to understand. The bootcamps provided safe spaces for participants to reflect on their lived experiences.  

    “The Eyolutsha LeMpuma-Kapa initiative reaffirms a simple yet powerful truth that when young people are given the space, support, and tools to lead, they rise to the occasion. These sessions have not only nurtured future leaders but have also ignited a ripple effect of transformation that promises to shape a more just and inclusive community,’’ said Senior Trainer Sandisiwe Pukwana. 

    Armed with new skills and knowledge, the trained youth ambassadors are now taking their message forward. Upcoming advocacy campaigns in their schools will spotlight inclusive sports and gender equality awareness. Through a peer education initiative titled “Each One Teach One,” these ambassadors will lead ongoing conversations around gender justice, using the power of peer-to-peer learning to drive real change.

  • Sonke facilitates SRHR session at Connector Week  2025

    Sonke facilitates SRHR session at Connector Week  2025

    Sonke Gender Justice led a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights(SRHR) during the Choice for Youth and Sexuality’s Connector Week 2025. The Connector Week is a dynamic gathering of youth-led organisations under the Power to Youth and Right Here, Right Now 2 programmes. The session focused on diverse country realities and unpacked how SRHR is perceived in different communities. It also set the pace for conversations on how perceptions of SRHR have contributed to shaping policies and influencing behaviours and practices. Engagements also touched on youths’ contribution to meaningful change in their communities.

    The SRHR session was an opportunity to identify the gaps in reproductive health issues like misconceptions on family planning, contraception use, and counselling services , and how young people can lead advocacy efforts to bridge the gaps and to determine if the policies promote Meaningful and Inclusive Youth Participation (MIYP). Sonke’s Power To Youth Partners from Malawi, Weston Mfunya and Godfrey Malongo from Youth Wave, were featured in the stories of change developed by Choice for Youth and Sexuality, giving a spotlight on the positive impact of MIYP.

    The Connector Week 2025 which was held from the 6th to 10th April, in Grand Popo, Benin highlighted innovative strategies for sustaining youth-driven actions. The goal was to foster learning from different country context and best practices to create connections and strategies that will sustain the programs’ achievements.

    Interactions highlighted innovative strategies for sustaining youth-driven actions. The learnings, engagements and reflections on the previous Connector Weeks led to the following outcomes being recorded:

    • Increased mutual learning and capacity strengthening for youth advocates
    • Strengthened sustainable movement building through strategic planning, community building and advocacy training.
    • Enhanced connections between and with partners working on youth-led and youth-centred approaches.

    The Connector Week provided a platform for cross-project learning between PtY and other programmes; the participants were able to learn about effective interventions and how they could apply that in their different contexts, for example, how the multistakeholder approach has created long-term partnerships with government departments and community structures. Furthermore, the agenda included a session on sustainability for youth-led organisations to discuss strategies and share tools to educate participants about sustainability beyond funding cycles.

  • Reclaiming our narratives: Reproductive justice through an Afrocentric lens

    Reclaiming our narratives: Reproductive justice through an Afrocentric lens

    From March 24th to 29th, 2025, Sonke Gender Justice and MenEngage Africa, under the SRHR4All project, successfully hosted the Reproductive Justice: Capacity Enhancement Programme to advance sexual and reproductive health rights and gender equality gender equality from an Afrocentric lens in Kampala, Uganda. This transformative five-day training programme was designed to empower young advocates with the essential knowledge, skills, and strategies to advance human rights, and SRHR through a reproductive justice reproductive justice framework rooted in Afrocentric principles. The training brought together SRHR4All partners from Malawi, Ethiopia and Uganda.

    “The journey towards true reproductive justice in Africa necessitates a profound understanding of our unique historical, cultural, and legal landscapes. This is the very foundation upon which the transformative five-day training  programme, reproductive justice from an Afrocentric perspective, is built,” says Sonke’s SRHR Specialist, Jude Thaddius Njikem.

    Throughout the training, participants explored legal and cultural systems that influence reproductive justice in Africa. They gained the tools to think critically about laws and policies and to actively shape them. The workshop focused on key concepts, landmark theories, and proven legal strategies that respond directly to the realities African countries face today.

    Justice  complex, it’s not only found in courtrooms. That’s why participants were trained in both formal and informal approaches to creating change. They  learnt how to use strategic litigation to promote gender equality, prevent gender-based violence, and challenge laws and policies that hold communities back. This training also looked at how to ensure legal wins lead to real change in people’s lives.

    “The significant shift is  recognising that reproductive justice is a human rights  issue, one that demands a holistic, intersectional approach that considers the social, economic, and cultural realities shaping people’s lives. I plan to actively engage African communities, not just as beneficiaries, but as co-creators of solutions to reproductive health and gender equality challenges”, said Masika Christine, Project assistant, United for Children’s Inter-Development Action Uganda (UNCIDA) Uganda.

    The workshop created space to explore new and culturally grounded ways of advocating reproductive justice. It  emphasised the many forces that shape gender roles and relationships—like traditions, laws, government, civil society, the media, and families. True change means understanding how all these elements are connected. It also means addressing the bigger economic, political, and social pressures that impact people every day.

    Participants were introduced to a holistic approach to tackling gender-based violence and SRHR, one that centers African perspectives. A key part of this work is engaging men as active allies and partners, not just as observers in building a more just and equal society.

    Importantly, the training also empowered communities to hold leaders accountable. “When we talk about accountability, we must begin by asking: who holds power, and who is most impacted by their decisions? True justice starts with empowering communities, youth, religious leaders, community leaders, and others with the knowledge of their rights and the tools to act. By educating and equipping them, we create the foundation for communities to hold duty-bearers accountable and drive meaningful, lasting change.”, concludes, Biruktawit Taye, Program Manager at Tamra for Social Development Organization.

    By the end of the five-day programme, participants had the skills to build strong networks, lead bold advocacy campaigns, and champion reproductive justice that uplifts gender equality, SRHR, and human rights across Africa.

  • Introducing the GenG Engage App: Empowering communities with a zero-rated app to end Gender based violence. 

    Introducing the GenG Engage App: Empowering communities with a zero-rated app to end Gender based violence. 

    Now available on iOS and Android, the GenG Engage App is here to empower communities to combat Gender based violence.  

    In a bold and groundbreaking step towards ending gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa, the Generation Gender programme, also known as GenG, officially launched a pioneering mobile application on 4th April 2025, designed to empower individuals, connect survivors to critical services, and strengthen the national response to GBVF. The Generation G South African Coalition comprises three partner organisations, namely, Sonke Gender Justice, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers, and Action Aid South Africa 

    The launch, which took place in Rosebank, Johannesburg, brought together young activists, civil society organisations, gender justice advocates, and others to witness a transformative moment in the efforts to create 

    Human-Centered Digital Tool for Justice 

    The newly launched GenG Engage is more than just an app, but it is a platform informed by the lived experiences of survivors of gender-based violence and that of young people. This app was developed through a human-centered design approach, which means it was done through a participatory process with youth and community members. At the predevelopment phase, the Generation Gender team consulted with young people from KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Eastern Cape to help guide the process and make sure that the diverse voices are incorporated into the app.

    The app provides access to resources such as the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide, including a case monitoring platform and additional educational resources aimed at prevention and awareness. The Access to Information component provides users with a repository of information and education materials such as policies, position papers, reports, guidelines, and toolkits, among other resources. 

    The Gen G Engage component is an interactive community forum where users can engage in discussions, contribute to polls, and stay updated on trending topics. The platform will enhance collaboration between partners and communities in different parts of South Africa. 

    “The GenG Engage app is for community benefit and upliftment. The more community-based organisations use this app, the more we shall be able to track service delivery on issues of GBV. It is a means to hold duty bearers accountable. In addition, the platform creates an easy way for youth to engage with one another and plan events not necessarily linked to GBV but having an impact on the communities they come from.” Sonke Gender Justice’s Policy Development and Advocacy Specialist, Namuma Mulindi. 

    South Africa has a high level of underreporting when it comes to GBVF cases. This is due to systematic challenges, including a lack of response by the police to assist survivors of GBVF and a lack of collaboration between various sectors of government departments that should be working together to assist survivors and secondary victims. Despite the existing GBVF legislation in the country, state actors have been slow and apathetic in addressing GBVF. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness of available services by community members, activists, and civil society organisations. 

     South Africa’s recent crime statistics revealed that crimes against women and children had skyrocketed to 961 murders and 1,661 attempted murders reported. Additionally, 11,803 rape cases were reported countrywide. It is evident that addressing GBVF demands a multi-layered approach. 

    Currently, gender advocates, activists, or human rights defenders receive a lot of requests for support on GBV cases, and often the assistance required relates to bottlenecks in the criminal justice system. Often activists providing support to survivors have followed due process in opening cases, but these cases stall at the South African Police Services, in court, or are withdrawn altogether with a lack of sufficient explanation or justification. While activists and survivors often understand the full story behind the cases they bring forward, they may not always have the specific details needed to offer effective support or to hold state actors within the criminal justice system accountable. 

     The Case Monitoring tool on the app will enable those using it to collect details that keep track of the SAPS case number, the court in which the matter is being heard, the number of postponements, and the reasons given for the postponements. The app will also enable us to track the efficiency of the Thuthuzela Care Centres 

    “The reports will help us showcase the challenges of trying to access justice. The Gen G Engage app will be a digital community platform for collaboration, support and mobilization in the promotion of gender justice”, Sakhile Zungu, Programme Manager at ActionAid South Africa. 

    The app will allow activists to host webinars and roundtable discussions that are accessible to all and post conversations that are live. Access to information, a resources tab, and education materials such as guidelines on how to report cases, GBVF policy position papers, policy submissions, and toolkits on youth participation within communities and structures of power. 

    Looking Forward 

    As GBVF continues to devastate communities across South Africa, digital innovations like the GenG Engage App offer opportunities to close the gaps in response and prevention. The launch marks a pivotal moment in the journey to ending gender-based violence, not just through policy but through a human-centred approach and using technology that serves justice. 

    “South Africa’s youth represent largely untapped potential to address pressing social challenges facing us today, including the challenge of gender-based violence and femicide. Social media platforms are increasingly becoming important tools in amplifying the voice of young people in responding to the challenge of GBVF as they can empower them to share information and resources and raise awareness about issues they are faced with,” Rammolotsi Sothoane, Special Projects Manager at ACTIVATE! Change Drivers 

    Generation Gender South Africa calls on all stakeholders—youth, government, civil society, and the private sector—to join in promoting the app, supporting its continuous development, and ensuring that every survivor, in every corner of the country, has access to safety, support, and dignity. 

    Download the GenG Engage App today— on your Play or App Store— and be part of the movement for gender justice. 

    Generation Gender is a global consortium of organisations working in seven (7) countries, namely, Morocco, Jordan, Lebanon, Rwanda, Uganda, Indonesia, and South Africa, in creating a gender-just & violence-free society for and with young people in their full diversity. The Generation G South African Coalition comprises three partner organisations, namely, Sonke Gender Justice, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers, and Action Aid South Africa, who are responsible for advancing the aims of the Generation G Programme in South Africa. 

  • CSW69 adopts Political Declaration

    CSW69 adopts Political Declaration

    The 69th Commission on the Status of Women opened with the adoption of a political declaration where countries reaffirmed their commitment to accelerate action to achieve gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. This year, the gathering aimed to review the Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

    Opening the CSW at the United Nations headquarters, Secretary-General  António Guterres, reflected on the thirty years since countries convened in Beijing to adopt the Declaration and Platform for Action. He said three decades on, the promise made on the framework feels more distant than we might ever have imagined.  

    ‘’Of course, we always knew that would never happen overnight, or even over years, but today  women’s rights are under siege. Now is the time for those of us who care about equality for women and girls to stand up and to speak out, now is the time for the world to accelerate progress and deliver on the promise of Beijing’’ said Guterres.

    ‘’In the past thirty years, the world has moved forward in boosting girls’ education, cutting maternal mortality, increasing legal protections, and more, but immense gaps persist. Violence, discrimination, and economic inequality are still rife, the gender pay gap still stands at twenty percent and globally, almost one in three women have been subject to violence.  In many countries, women and girls are still denied the most basic of rights’’ he added.

    Throughout the two weeks, the commission hosted various dialogues on various topics ranging from environmental justice, gender-based violence to inclusive development among others, against the backdrop of the theme of reviewing the Beijing framework.

    Sonke co-hosted side events as follows:

    Men and boys as agents of change to feminism and tackling barriers to solidarity

    This session, which was  co-organised with MenEngage Alliance, Governments of Rwanda and Sweden, RWAMREC, Equimundo and other organisations, was to explore lessons of the work with men and boys and on transforming masculinities, for the last two decades, and it’s impacts at practice, programs and policy levels towards the realisation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and gender, social and environmental justice more broadly. The event in which Policy Development and Advocacy Manager Mpiwa Mangwiro-Tsanga was a panellist,  also laid out practical actions to foster a culture of positive masculinities and men’s engagement as feminist allies in advancing gender equality, ensuring that work is transformative and prioritizes structural and systemic change.

    Transforming care: progress, challenges and future directions in men’s involvement in care work.

    Sonke collaborated with Equimundo, RWAMREC and Mencare among other partners, to discuss the progress, challenges, and opportunities in reshaping care policies and practices to promote gender equality, with an emphasis on the role of men in caregiving.

    Sonke’s Co-Executive Director Bafana Khumalo presented on the Transforming care work: African regional perspective on caregiving, discrimination and success in shifting caregiving norms. He noted that caregiving discrimination and successes in shifting caregiving norms vary across African regions.

     ‘’ We see that East Africa has made significant progress through policy reforms and community-based programs, West Africa on the other hand has opportunities to promote men’s involvement in care work through initiatives targeting patriarchal norms and power dynamics, while Southern Africa has made progress, but further efforts are needed to address socio-economic factors perpetuating caregiving discrimination’’ he said. The meeting also called on policymakers, practitioners, and communities to advocate for policy reforms and advancements supporting men’s involvement in care work.

    Beijing 30+: Gains, losses, what next?

    In partneship with MenEngage Africa, UN Women , Frontline AIDS, Y+ Global  and Rutgers, we brought together veteran gender justice advocates and today’s young leaders to reflect on the progress made since the 1995 Beijing  Conference, to examine emerging challenges and chart a way forward for gender equality in Africa and beyond.

    ‘’The intergenerational dialogue drew parallels between preceding and current generations’ struggles to foster solidarity and encourage cross-generational collaboration’’ said Thembelihle Ntandane, Senior Trainer and a moderator for the session. ‘’ We also reflected on the new forms of gender-based discrimination and GBV that have emerged over the past 30 years and in terms of current anti-right and anti-climate justice movements, such as digital harassment, climate-related challenges, and how conflict has affected the gains, while emphasizing intergenerational exchange between veteran advocates and today’s young leaders’’ she adds.

    Experts say to achieve women’s rights and gender equality there’s a need to dismantle the unequal patriarchal power structures that are at the root of gender inequality.

    As we move forward, the UN Secretary-General  António Guterres’s key recommendation on how to accelerate progress in the next coming years include:

    • Boosting sustainable finance for sustainable development – to deliver sustainable funding for women’s equality. 
    • Investments in economic empowerment including adequate pay and pensions for care givers – the majority of whom are women.
    •  Investments to eradicate all forms of violence and harassment – the United Nations’ Spotlight Initiative can be refenced to indicate the impact
    • Step-up support for women’s organizations, as they play a vital role in accountability
    • Action on technology, to address and eliminate all forms of violence using digital technologies… 
    •  Women leading in business: temporary special measures, such as quotas, targeted appointments, and parity goals must help and countries and companies should use them. 

    The two weeks forum underscored the global commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing the multifaceted challenges women and girls face worldwide. Its 70th edition is expected to take place under a new theme in March next year.

  • Inkanyezi Project: Strengthening community engagement and response 

    Inkanyezi Project: Strengthening community engagement and response 

    The Inkanyezi project team in Mpumalanga hosted a series of forums in the first quarter of the year, aimed at addressing the concerns and challenges faced by communities affected by displacement and other social issues. Bringing together local community leaders, government representatives and other stakeholders, these discussions served as a platform for fostering collaboration and identifying possible solutions. 

    The engagements were centered on raising awareness about Intergrated Development Plan processes, ensuring women’s participation in local governance, accountability for gender-based violence cases, strengthening partnerships, and understanding challenges faced by communities.  

    ‘’ the workshops create an open dialogue between stakeholders and develop practical strategies for addressing the challenges faced by internally displaced persons. The discussions underscore the importance of community involvement, enhanced coordination among organizations, and policy-level reforms to ensure lasting impact’’ said Nomalanga Ngwenya, Inkanyezi Project Manager. 

    The Inkanyezi project facilitated sessions in regions experiencing a growing number of displaced persons, where the project team has been actively involved in providing support and facilitating discussions. These are communities that require urgent interventions to ensure the well-being of affected populations and promote long-term stability.  

    An over-arching sentiment from these sessions has been the need for sustained engagements, immediate action to tackle pressing issues as well as considerations of recommendations made by community forums by duty bearers, to contribute to meaningful change. 

    Other key recommendations include these: 

    • Strengthening policy frameworks to better support IDPs. 
    • Increasing funding for local initiatives addressing displacement challenges. 
    • Enhancing security measures to protect vulnerable groups. 

    With continued commitment and cooperation, there is hope for building resilient, self-sustaining communities despite ongoing challenges.  The Inkanyezi project, which seeks to promote women’s leaders and human rights remains dedicated to championing community-driven solutions and ensuring that the voices of affected populations remain central to all interventions. 

  • Donor Corner: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and the Power to Youth Programme

    Donor Corner: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and the Power to Youth Programme

    Sonke Gender Justice extends heartfelt appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands for its vital support of the Power to Youth programme. This strategic partnership, delivered in collaboration with Amref Flying Doctors and Rutgers, aims to amplify the voices and agency of adolescent girls and young women, AGYW across Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Senegal, and Uganda. 

    Launched in 2021 under the Ministry’s Strengthening Civil Society framework, PtY addresses harmful practices, sexual and gender-based violence, and unintended pregnancies, while promoting youth-led governance, expanded civic space, and gender-transformative approaches. Over its five-year course, the programme has centred the lived realities of AGYW in shaping lasting change.

    Sonke has played a leading role in implementing PtY in Malawi and Uganda, contributing technical assistance, supporting innovation through human-centred design and strengthening advocacy efforts at community and national levels. With funding exceeding 3 million Euros between 2021 and 2023, Sonke has facilitated impactful grassroots programming, cross-country learning, and evidence generation.  Central to PtY is a commitment to Southern leadership and meaningful youth participation. In each programme country, Country Management Teams, co-led by youth and adult organisations, oversee design, implementation and learning. This model ensures that young people are active decision-makers, not just participants. Sonke’s support has enabled youth-led organisations to engage in co-creation, influence policy, and lead transformative campaigns in their communities.

    The PtY programme is reshaping what youth engagement means. In 2023, Sonke helped drive innovation by piloting digital tools, supporting national advocacy, and contributing to mid-term reviews and operational research. These efforts have reinforced youth leadership, increased institutional accountability, and catalysed community-level shifts in social norms. AGYW and male allies alike have been mobilised to challenge harmful practices and promote gender equality, while policymakers have been engaged to reflect youth voices in legislative and policy reform.

    As PtY enters its final phase, Sonke and its partners remain committed to scaling innovation, deepening impact, and sustaining change. The legacy of the programme lies in its dedication to equity, inclusive governance, and transformative youth leadership.

    We thank the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands for their bold investment in this movement. Together, through Power to You(th), we are creating a future where young women thrive, lead, and help shape just, inclusive societies.

  • Youth Voices at Africa Health Agenda International Conference 2025

    Youth Voices at Africa Health Agenda International Conference 2025

    Young leaders of the Power To Youth program were part of insightful conversations and knowledge sharing at the Africa Health Agenda International Conference (AHAIC) held in Kigali, Rwanda, from the 2nd to 5th of March 2025 under the theme Connected for Change: Addressing the Socio-Ecological Dynamics of Health. The AHAIC was an opportunity to revitalize and bring innovative ideas on transforming health. It also sought to rewrite the health narrative while proposing holistic solutions to health challenges in Africa.

    PowerToYouth Malawi Presenting at AHAIC

    Given that the PTY program exists to empower young people, make them heard and seen, youth advocates from Malawi engaged during this conference by bringing in their perspectives and sharing their hopes of what they want to see for health transformation in Africa.

    As Martha Moyo, Advocacy Officer at Amref Malawi joined the AHAIC, she was keen on engaging with stakeholders through her perspective centered on gender equality and legal harmonization to protect the rights of adolescent girls and young women from harmful cultural practices. In her capacity of an Advocacy Officer, her aspiration was to take part in discourses informing policy change and policy shift.

    ”I hope that the engagements from AHAIC 2025 will amplify youth voices, inspire policy changes, increase youth participation in decision making processes and secure more funding for programs that empower adolescents, women, and youth. It should also focus on strengthening health systems to address sexual and reproductive health -SRHR barriers and promoting inclusive youth participation” said Moyo.

    While the youth has worked directly in communities, their lived experiences in advocating for Sexual and Reproductive Health issues were critical in shaping the discussions at AHAIC. Weston Mfunya is a youth leader and Programs officer at Youth Wave Malawi and has worked in communities over the years. He focused on bringing his field experience to inform the discussions held on improving and setting a health agenda that serves and addresses communities’ realities.

    ”As a youth leader attending AHAIC, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my experiences working with young people in our communities in the following areas:

    1) Leading interventions that amplify youth voices in health policy and decision-making processes.

    2)Developing and implementing youth-centred health programs, focusing on education, economic empowerment, and social determinants of health.

    3) Working with governments, international partners, and civil society organisations to strengthen health systems, improve healthcare access, and enhance health outcomes.

    4) Advocating for increased investment in health systems, particularly focusing on marginalized communities.

    Through this conference I will ensure that young people’s perspectives, concerns, and ideas are integrated into the conference discussions and outcomes. I will encourage dialogue and partnerships between youth leaders, experts, and policymakers to drive collective action and innovative solutions. I also hope to push for greater investment in health systems, particularly interventions focusing on rural populations,’ shared Mfunya.

    Discussing access to health was also an important aspect that youth hoped to raise during the AHIAC. This is because attaining health coverage across the African continent is not feasible without looking into issues that prevent women, girls, and youth from being able to access sexual and reproductive health rights services in communities. ”Most services in African communities are not youth-friendly enough to offer appropriate services” This is according to Chimwemwe Kayange, programs officer at Power To Youth Malawi ,who focused on advocating for health equity.

    ”As a programs officer and a young SRHR advocate from Malawi, I bring a perspective that is rooted in ensuring equitable access to reproductive healthcare, education, and services for all youth. At AHAIC, I hope to dive into discussions that empower young people, especially women and girls, to make informed decisions about their bodies and health. I envision using this platform in advocating for the importance of adequate funding for SRHR while also conducting domestic polling on SRHR financing. This will ensure that young people have the resources and support necessary to lead healthier lives” Kayange said.

    Evidence-based conversations and agenda-setting, a hallmark for making informed decisions and choices, were critical areas for Chimwemwe Chisale, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at Centre for Youth Empowerment and Civic Education (CYECE). Evidence generation is important for health outcomes and decisions because it guides fact-based discussions and translates to successful advocacy.

    ”With a strong background in research, I bring a unique perspective to the AHAIC conference by emphasizing the importance of evidence-based decision-making in implementing SRHR policies and improving service delivery. My work with youth-focused programs, such as Power to Youth, has provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities young people face in accessing health services.” Chisale.

    During the conference, Chisale presented the groundwork in Malawi and how the central operations research was critical in identifying and addressing health challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women.

    ”I presented findings from operational research on social accountability monitoring, which highlight the critical role of young people in ensuring transparency and accountability in SRHR service delivery. These findings provide actionable recommendations for enhancing youth engagement in policy implementation and fostering greater collaboration between young people and stakeholders to improve health outcomes.” He adds.

    Chisale Presenting findings from operational research on social accountability monitoring at AHAIC

    Based on his passion for research, Chisale aspirations were to, through his experience, advocate for transformative health systems and linking and learning opportunities among participants.

    ”Through engagements at this conference, I hope to inspire transformative approaches in addressing health challenges faced by young people, particularly in SRHR. Sharing best practices, innovative solutions, and lessons from programs like social accountability monitoring will empower young people to actively participate in health programs and policy processes.”Chisale emphasizes.

    The Youth are not just passive recipients and beneficiaries of change but the main actors ,given that they form the majority of Africa’s population. Chisale wants to see young people at the centre and at all levels meaningfully engaged in all processes for setting the health agenda.

    ”I envision a future where young people are not just beneficiaries but also key drivers of innovations in addressing health challenges. By equipping them with the tools and knowledge to advocate for their needs, I believe this conference will pave the way for youth-led initiatives that prioritize inclusivity, accountability, and sustainable change in health service delivery.” said Chisale.

    Youth participation at the AHIAC 2025 was not only a chance to hear their voices but also to know what they are doing and how they are influencing change in their communities. It was a fantastic opportunity to engage and involve youths in shaping the health narrative, rewriting wrong stories, and setting an agenda from a social and ecological perspective while finding solutions to systemic barriers and unequal power structures that deprioritize African health on the global stage.

    By Nkengafack Eucharia

  • Sonke Gender Justice and Concern Worldwide Partnership Review Meeting

    Sonke Gender Justice and Concern Worldwide Partnership Review Meeting

    Sonke Gender Justice and Concern Worldwide have been partnering since 2017 to strengthen working with men and women for gender transformation within their programs. The project is implemented in Liberia, Burkina Faso, Haiti, and Bangladesh among others. It aims to transform attitudes of the Concern Worldwide staff and strengthen their capacity in promoting gender equality and engage them in innovative ways to implement gender transformative programs thus improving sectoral and gender for the organisation. This partnership also helps in retaining training skills in each country for a period of three years, providing more depth and exposure to the approach.

    Against the backdrop of this partnership, the two organisations held a review and planning meeting in Dublin, Ireland in August 2024 to clarify the scope of work, reflect on the goal of the partnership by reviewing progress and proposing solutions to identified challenges, as well as planning for the next phase of the project. Of the countries that this project is implemented in, twelve country visits have been completed, with Syria added to the initial list.

    During this meeting, the two partners discussed various programs, including advocacy networks, Sexual and Reproductive Health, LGBTQIA+, MenEngage, Women Peace and Security, research, and innovation for gender transformation. This was an opportunity to present the Concern and Sonke partnership to other humanitarian Nongovernmental Organisations in Dublin. The meeting focused on women’s leadership, access to justice, budget and investment, and intersectionality, particularly gender-disability intersectionality.

    Review of progress and scope of work

    This session aimed to monitor the quality of the relationship and identify areas for improvement. Both teams participated on a “Looking back / looking forward “activity, to identify the evolution of the partnership and its future direction. Key questions included whether the partnership has been a true, principled, mutually beneficial, shared vision, how well both partners are managing the partnership, the core principles guiding their work. They also evaluated areas for improvement in partnership management, and the benefits gained from the partnership.

    In another session, both organisations discussed their strategic priorities and how they can complement each other. Sonke is developing a new global strategy, focusing on new areas such as intersectionality, disability, and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights. Concern is also focusing on sustainability of its funding and grants system, developing a dedicated training institute for sexual harassment prevention and gender transformation. They aim to develop their gender transformative approach in climate change and demobilisation, rehabilitation and reintegration contexts. Concern has been working on two research projects, one on LGBTQIA+ communities in Lesotho and the other on technological Sexual Gender Based Violence. Concern is adapting its global Equality Theory of Change to conflict and crisis-affected areas, and broadening its scope to focus on other inequalities, particularly disability. They are developing a new Inclusive Leadership module and encouraging more open-door family events with gender activities. The discussion also highlighted opportunities for synergies in technical areas, such as LGBTQIA+ rights and SRH. Both organizations will include other organizations in consultation for their new strategy development and make efforts to document and disseminate learnings.

    Gender Transformative Approach workshop

    Concern Worldwide staff were trained by Sonke Gender Justice on Gender Transformative Approaches methodology from 19 to 23 August The modules were adapted to a European culture and audience. A session on gender programming was added to the agenda to link the workshop with Concern’s programmatic work. Discussions highlighted the importance of staying updated in humanitarian field discussions. The link between gender in programming and quality, locally led programming was also highlighted. The workshop also emphasised the need for different culture-specific images for gender norms transformation activities and the need to review manual thinking for other family dynamics and caretaker groups. It also highlighted the importance of looking at practices and behaviours during pre and post-test surveys and qualitative observation and data for both staff and communities.

    Participants identified key takeaways and next actions, including mental workload sharing, paying more attention to certain situations, having courage to act as an ally, creating more safe spaces for reflection. Participants also had conversations on arranging discreet sessions, encouraging sons to be open to non-boy activities, being aware of stereotypes’ impact on men, and not being complacent regarding inequality work in Ireland. They also discussed ideas for workshops and group collaboration, the gender continuum, and the need to embed equality thinking into programs and recognize workplace challenges.

    Sonke Gender Justice and Concern Worldwide intend to continue their collaboration to ensure that their shared vision of promoting gender transformation is translated into actions and interventions in different countries.

  • “Eyolutsha leMpumaKapa” youth-led project

    “Eyolutsha leMpumaKapa” youth-led project

    The “Masoyise uxhatshazo olusekezwe kwisini ingakumbi amanina nabantwana!”- Let us overcome Gender-Based Violence, especially towards Women and Children, project implementation continues in South Africa’s Eastern Cape communities.

    The project, supported by donor KNH, is based in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality in Zwide and Motherwell communities as well as in the Amathole District in the communities of Mbashe and Mnquma. This initiative seeks to develop and promote meaningful and inclusive youth participation through capacity building and mobilize communities to address harmful gender norms through gender transformative approaches.

    ‘‘We held an inception meeting in May at the Amathole district area where we engaged several stakeholders including government, the religious and traditional leadership and civil cociety representatives’’ said Patrick Godana, the lead of the project and Community Education and Mobilisation Provincial Manager.

    ‘’We then had a second kick-off meeting in August where selected local schools that we will be working with, namely Sakhisizwe High School, Boysenspark High School, Ndabankulu High School and Nondwe High Schools’’ he adds.

    Sakhisizwe High School is a public school serving the poverty-stricken community of Zwide municipality. Boysen’s Park High School on the other hand, is a multi-racial school with Xhosa and Afrikaans speaking learners, servicing northern areas of the Nelson Mandela Metro municipality.

    In the Amathole District, Ndabankulu High School and Nondwe High School were selected, both schools are in deep rural settings of what is formerly known as the Transkei Bantustan and are under resourced with high levels of poverty and GBV.

    Since then, the project has had to appoint youth ambassadors for this project, to ensure that these young people advocate for gender justice and meaningfully participate in decision-making spaces.

    ‘’The criteria to choose youth ambassadors included looking for a gender balance, we wanted pupils who are active and are attending school regularly, and especially those who represent the marginalized groups like the LGBTQIA+. Their education commitments are prioritized, as project activities only take place after school, with consent from parents.’’ Godana explained.

    During various consultations with Sonke, youth ambassadors have expressed how GBV affects them and the negative effects of the poor response from authorities to support the survivors.

    As such, among other roles of these ambassadors is to represent youth in various platforms and advocate for their struggles especially based on gender-based violence issues.

    Next year, the selected ambassadors will attend capacity building workshops, so as to engage the learners through the Each One , Teach One campaign in which they will be capacitated on various issues affecting the youth including sexual and reproductive health rights.

  • MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice at the SVRI2024 forum

    MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice at the SVRI2024 forum

    Engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against gender-based violence is a critical way of achieving sustainable change. For several years, MenEngage Africa  has observed that programs working to include boys and men have the potential to both increase their support for gender equality and significantly reduce the levels of violence men perpetrate. The programs not only foster a deeper understanding of masculinity but also encourage participants to challenge harmful gender norms. Moreover, men who actively participate in programs focused on masculinity and gender equality are more likely to advocate for women’s rights. This shift in perspective is vital, as it helps dismantle the societal structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice. The impact of GBV extends beyond individual victims: it ripples through communities, obstructing progress and entrenching cycles of violence and discrimination.

    It is against this background that MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice and partners convened  at the Sexual Violence Research Initiative 2024 forum in Cape Town, South Africa, on the 22nd of October 2024 to host a parallel event under the theme: Reimagining Masculinities: Mobilizing Men and Boys to prevent Gender-Based Violence. The  aim of the side event was to  highlight key contributions that MenEngage Africa has made toward violence prevention. This parallel event sought to strengthening strategies of partnering with men and boys,  encouraging them to become steadfast allies in the quest for gender justice and the promotion of women’s rights. Central to this mission, is the urgent need to address and prevent sexual and gender-based violence , which remains a critical issue affecting millions across the continent.

    “It was an exciting experience to witness MEA’s significant contributions to violence prevention through engaging men and boys as allies in promoting gender justice, women’s rights, and the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence ,” says Joseph Kilonzo  of the Kenya MenEngage Alliance.

    “This experience empowered me to become a change agent, actively engaging men and boys in challenging harmful traditional practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and teenage pregnancies, while promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) issues. “he adds.

    The side event was  also an acknowledgement of the innovative and creative methods they have employed to prevent sexual and gender-based violence across the African continent. Through an engaging series of presentations and discussions, attendees learned about MEA’s multifaceted strategies, that include community engagement, educational outreach, and advocacy campaigns. These strategies are thus meant to challenge traditional notions of masculinity, contribute to healthy relationships, and embolden men and boys to take an active stand against GBV.

    MenEngage Africa and Sonke Gender Justice are committed to creating sustainable and effective interventions that address the root causes of GBV. Encouraged by our recent participation in the 2024 SVRI forum held in Cape Town, South Africa, we remain steadfast in our commitment to engaging men and boys in our programs and as allies in bringing an end to gender-based violence.

  • 16 Days of Activism: MenEngage Africa joins the global fight against GBV

    16 Days of Activism: MenEngage Africa joins the global fight against GBV

    MenEngage Africa joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign running from November 25th-the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to December 10th-Human Rights Day. It was also an important year because it fell within the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a milestone global policy framework for advancing women’s rights.

    The theme of this year’s campaign, “UNITE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” calls for a collective action that should be done across all sectors in society. The Beijing Declaration emphasized the need to address systemic issues that perpetuate GBV, including cultural norms, economic disparities, and legal barriers.

    MenEngage Africa’s engagement in this campaign covered 24 countries across the continent. In each country, various activities were organized, which were specifically tailored to the local context but within the broader goals of the campaign.

    “This year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign provided a crucial opportunity to renew our commitment to ending violence against women and girls,” said Josephine Mukwendi, Sonke’s Regional Programme Specialist. “By working together with our partners across Africa, we can create a more just and equitable world where all women and girls can live free from fear and violence. “she adds.

    MenEngage Africa continues its commitment beyond the 16 Days of Activism campaign, it emphasizes that ending violence against women requires sustained effort from all sectors of society. The lessons learned during this campaign will inform future strategies aimed at creating safer spaces for women and girls across Africa.

    Here are some of the highlights from some MenEngage Africa networks

    MenEngage  Nigeria

    On the 7th of December 2024, Empowering Women for Excellence Initiative hosted a X space under the theme; Unite for Change: Raising Awareness on Intersectional Discrimination and VAWG.”  The X space focused on raising awareness about Intersectional discrimination and violence against women and girls. The objective was to enhance advocacy efforts geared towards ending violence against women and girls and to foster a supportive online community.

    Listen here:

    Part 1
    Part 2

    MenEngage South Sudan

    MESS hosted several gender-based violence awareness sessions. One of them was a community sensitization session with over 50 participants focused on promoting gender equality as a human rights issue. The event involved stakeholders, including men, women, and youth from diverse backgrounds. Participants engaged through interactive sessions, group discussions, and role-playing activities, challenging gender stereotypes and encouraging inclusive attitudes. The event successfully achieved its key targets.

    MESS also conducted sensitization sessions both through radio broadcasts, which actively involved the youth and other members of the network. The radio broadcasts talked of issues like “What does it mean to be a man within the context of South Sudan?”, “unpacking positive masculinity-a concept of everyday momentum,” and general attitudes in society around what it means to be a man. According to an estimated listenership conducted by management of Miraya Radio station, these talk shows may have reached more than 2 million people.

    Listen here:

    MenEngage DRC

    In an effort to expand their reach and appeal to a wider audience, MenEngage DRC has effectively leveraged the use of media and the transformative power of art. Among their creative ventures is the production of a song that captures the essence of their message. The song, with powerful lyrics and captivating melodies, was aired on Zonart TV, an influential platform that attracts a considerable audience. This has been a very strategic decision to use music as a vehicle for social change, since it requires engagement at both emotional and cultural levels for listeners.

    The broad vision of this musical initiative is to educate the audience about the critical issues related to gender-based violence and to bring a sense of urgency in the call for a final stop to such acts. This educative way not only informs the community but also mobilizes them into the ongoing fight against gender violence. MenEngage DRC seeks to ignite collective action and solidarity amongst people from diverse walks of life through the promotion of dialogue and personal reflection inspired by artistic expression.

    Watch/Listen here:

    MenEngage Cameroon

    To commemorate 16 days of activism, Sustainable Women Organisation  and Xhuma Africa under the umbrella of Men Engage Cameroon, held an inter generation dialogue in Fundong, Boyo division. To raise awareness on gender-based violence and communities’ role in eliminating it. This intergenerational dialogue  featured 60 Participants comprised of women, girls, men and boys, thus providing an opportunity for  different perspectives. While the participants unanimously agreed that gender –based violence is criminal, women indicated that economic empowerment, inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making spaces will go a long way to curb the incidence of violence against women and girls.  Girls and boys called for conversations  amongst parents and their children on issues around GBV so that girls in particular can open up if they are violated. They also advocated for equal opportunities for boys and girls to attain their full potential.  All the groups strongly called for severe punishment for all perpetrators of violence against women and girls.

  • Sonke Gender Justice leads #GBVNotMyHeritage campaign to challenge harmful norms

    Sonke Gender Justice leads #GBVNotMyHeritage campaign to challenge harmful norms

    Sonke Gender Justice launched the annual #GBVNotMyHeritage campaign under Generation Gender programme, a bold initiative against the normalisation of Gender-based Violence, so deeply rooted in the cultural and religious fabric of South Africa. The in-person campaign was conducted from September the 26th to October 4th at Generation Gender implementation sites in Kwazulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Gauteng. The campaign calls on communities, traditional leaders, and religious leaders to take an active stance in condemning GBV in all forms.

    The #GBVNotMyHeritage campaign sought to foster open dialogue on the links between religion, culture, and GBV while empowering religious and traditional leaders to play an active role in addressing GBV within their communities. The campaign challenged cultural practices that perpetrate GBV and misinterpreted religious texts, thereby helping to create a fair and just society.

    South Africa faces a critical public health crisis with alarmingly high rates of GBV. The South African Medical Research Council reports that the rate of femicide remains high, with 5.5 in 100,000 women killed by an intimate partner between 2020 and 2021. Despite robust laws and policies, GBV continues to plague our society.

    “GBV remains a pervasive issue in South Africa, with alarmingly high rates of domestic violence, sexual assault, and femicide,” says Namuma Mulindi, Policy Development and Advocacy Specialist at Sonke Gender Justice. “This campaign thus seeks to dismantle the injurious cultural and religious norms that feed this crisis”, she adds.

    One of the root causes of this crisis lies in the deeply ingrained influence of cultural and religious norms that perpetuate gender inequality and discriminatory patriarchal practices. Discussions during the campaign revealed a disturbing trend: the misinterpretation of religious texts to justify abusive behavior and a failure to hold duty bearers, including cultural leaders, accountable.

    There was a consensus among participants that there is still a need for more conversations on how religion and culture have been used to normalise GBV if the problem is to be effectively addressed. “We need to ensure religious and cultural leaders in rural communities are invited into spaces where the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence (NSP-GBVF) is being discussed so that they too can provide their insight and support the fight against GBV,” concludes Mulindi.

    Watch highlights here:

  • Donor’s Corner: Irene M. Staehelin Foundation

    Donor’s Corner: Irene M. Staehelin Foundation

    Sonke is extremely appreciative of the generous support provided by the Irene M. Staehelin Foundation, a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting social justice and human rights around the world. Their support has been instrumental in advancing our work to address gender-based violence and HIV in the Western and Northern Cape provinces in South Africa. Through this collaboration, Sonke has been able to strengthen community-driven approaches that empower marginalized populations, challenge harmful gender norms, and promote equitable health services. The Foundation’s generous contributions have supported transformative initiatives that enhance rights-based advocacy and foster safer, inclusive communities.

    On 19 November 2024, the IMS Foundation board members visited Sonke’s Men’s Wellness Centre in the Western Cape. This visit provided an opportunity to witness the impact of Sonke’s work firsthand. Board members engaged with beneficiaries, who shared powerful testimonies of personal transformation, and participated in a Men’s Dialogue session with diverse stakeholders, including traditional leaders, health service providers, and LGBTQI advocates. These discussions highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to promote men’s health, address GBVF, and end violence against women and children.

    The partnership has enabled Sonke to scale up the Gugulethu Men’s Wellness Programme, conduct formative research into indigenous communities, and strengthen civil society’s capacity for policy advocacy. By leveraging media, religious, and traditional authorities, the Foundation’s support has also advanced community mobilization to hold duty-bearers accountable for delivering inclusive health services. Projects of this nature are crucial in our country especially because South Africa faces the intersecting crisis of GBV and HIV/AIDS with some of the highest rates globally. These projects have the ability to break the existing cycle of violence in homes as well as HIV/AIDS infection by fostering gender equality, improving access to healthcare services and empowering communities. As a result of this partnership, Sonke continues to build on our Rights, Action, Accountability and Sustainability model, scaling up efforts to empower local communities to address GBV and HIV.

    This initiative emphasizes the vital role of men and boys in transforming harmful gender norms, while also promoting the leadership of marginalized groups, including indigenous communities. Together, we are creating a future where communities can access opportunities, healthcare, and rights, free from discrimination and violence. By addressing these issues holistically, we are not only solving present challenges but also paving the way for future generations to thrive in a more just and equitable society. We deeply value the support from Irene M. Staehelin Foundation and look forward to build on the impact from this strategic partnership.

  • Advancing transformative Feminist Leadership

    Advancing transformative Feminist Leadership

    The Mpumalanga Inkanyezi project team held a three-day training for elected officials, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and community representatives in collaboration with the Commission for Gender Equality, from the 13th to the 15th of November 2924.

    The workshop was to capacitates participants to better understand feminist leadership. The session highlighted how feminist principles can motivate attempts to achieve more gender equality as follows:

    Supporting Gender Equality: examining how feminist leadership can address the underlying causes of inequity while strengthening the rights of women.

    Strengthening Networks: establishing and fostering linkages between feminist movements and women leaders to present an organized front for advocacy.

    Empowering Advocacy: ensuring that women leaders’ voices are heard in decision-making processes by encouraging them to actively participate in feminist public policy advocacy.

    ‘’We combined knowledge, theory, and practical applications drawn from women’s leaders and organizations’ experiences during the session. Participants shared about leadership obstacles women encounter and tips on how to overcome these’’ said Sonke’s Senior Trainer Rhandzekile Mathebula

    The Commission for Gender Equality led a session which focused on cultivating female leaders to promote gender equality. Commissioner Eurika Mogane emphasized on the importance of capacitating especially young women leaders.

    ‘’Gender equality is still a challenge in society despite advancements. It is imperative to keep opposing patriarchal norms and informing communities about the negative impact that they have on young girls and women, and we do this through our many interventions’’ Mogane said.

    The meeting agreed that charity begins at home in terms of effectively addressing gender inequalities. ‘’From an early age, parents should encourage their children, regardless of gender, to share household duties equally. In addition to improving family dynamics, this approach will help lower gender-based violence. Boys can have a deeper awareness of the difficulties women encounter and develop greater empathy and respect by learning about the roles that are typically allocated to women’’ add Mogane.

    The workshop provided a safe space for women to ventilate on various issues and learn from one another. A key takeaway from the session was one participant, who wished not to be named, who indicated that after the training, she now had the courage to run for the local ward councilor position in the upcoming elections, given the knowledge and encouragement received on how to navigate leadership roles from the trainings.

    Sonke through the Inkanyezi project, continues to empower women leaders in Mpumalanga and Eastern Cape provinces.