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.
