Africa-Press – Botswana. The Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, working with the Security Association of Botswana, launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence under the theme UNiTe to End Digital Violence Against Women and Children. The event used two simultaneous marches that drew leaders, civil society groups and the public. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Pushie Manyeneng attended in her role as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on Women.
Kgosi Keabetswe Dihutso of Mogoditshane opened the event. He raised concern about rising abuse cases. He urged women to avoid withdrawing cases once they reach authorities.
Security Association of Botswana representative Gaolatwe Mudongo spoke as a partner. He noted the rise of digital violence. He said harmful content is often shared by men. He called for government to involve perpetrators in discussions to reduce gender based violence.
UN Resident Coordinator Wenyan Yan said activism against GBV is a global effort. She said violence against women is also a violation of peace and security. She added that victims often cannot work, which hurts the economy.
BOFABONETHA Chief of Party Reverend Mmachakga Moruakgomo said digital abuse has no place in a just society. He said silence supports harmful behaviour. He noted that the organisation aims to create safe spaces for victims. He said communities need open dialogue on men and mental health.
National Gender Commission Vice Chairperson Morenaogaufi Rankopo condemned the distribution of pornographic content and the sharing of private images without consent. He said women face the worst consequences. He said many face blackmail through leaked images. He added that men also experience digital abuse but that 7 in 10 victims are women.
Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs Lesego Chombo delivered the keynote address. She said women are unsafe in homes, workplaces and digital platforms. She highlighted data. She said 58 percent of women have faced digital abuse. She said 90 percent of pornographic content features women. She said 40 percent of women in African parliaments face digital harassment.
The Minister said laws such as the Data Protection Act and the Cybercrime and Computer Related Crimes Act exist. She said the country must strengthen legal tools to fight digital abuse. She added that adults must help children use digital spaces safely. She said children must not become victims or perpetrators.
She encouraged communities to take part in the drafting of the Gender Based Violence Bill. She said many perpetrators have past experiences of abuse. She said the country must use an approach that addresses root causes.
Digital abuse takes many forms. These include degrading messages, non consensual sharing of intimate images, online stalking, surveillance, hate speech and account takeovers. The launch called for active involvement from communities. It also called for stronger laws and more awareness to protect women and children in digital spaces.
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