SADC calls for collective action to end gender-based violence

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has called for collective action to eradicate gender-based violence (GBV) within the region.

In a statement released to commemorate the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, SADC Executive Secretary His Excellency, Mr. Elias Magosi highlighted the urgent need in strengthening legal frameworks to end violence against women and girls.

Magosi emphasized that GBV remains a serious human rights violation, with nearly one in three women in the SADC region experiencing physical or sexual violence. The issue is further worsened by the rise of cyberbullying and online harassment, which also affects young women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign, which runs annually from November 25 to December 10, aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence and mobilize action to end it.

This year’s theme, “Towards 30 years of Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” highlights the ongoing commitment to achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment.