Africa-Press – Botswana. Digital violence has grown into a silent epidemic in Botswana. It harms women and girls every day. It destroys confidence, relationships and safety. It pushes some victims into despair. It has also led to suicide in severe cases. The Parliamentary Caucus on Women raised these concerns during a panel discussion held to mark the 16 days of activism against gender based violence. The event focused on the theme Unite To End Digital Violence Against All Women And Girls.
Honourable Helen Pushy Manyeneng said digital abuse now affects women and girls more than any other group. You see this in social media harassment, threats, fake accounts, image based abuse and cyberstalking. She said many victims do not know how to report cases. You also see gaps in knowledge among caregivers and communities. She called for practical education to help people identify digital violence and know where to seek help.
She urged parents and caregivers to stay involved in the online lives of children. You need to watch how children use the internet. You need to talk to them about privacy, consent and online risks. She said education helps children make safer choices and report abuse early.
Botswana Police Service Senior Assistant Commissioner and Director of Gender and Child Protection, Goitseone Ngono, said women and children face the highest levels of digital facilitated violence. The police have recorded more than 2000 reports. Most of these cases do not reach court. She said this gap weakens protection for victims and makes offenders confident that they will not face consequences.
Other panelists included Lorato Ruth Moalosi of the Botswana Gender Based Violence Prevention and Support Centre, Kgosi Arnold Somolekae of the Gaborone West Phase 4 Customary Court and Uyapo Ndadi of Ndadi Law Firm. They highlighted the need for stronger reporting systems, better community awareness and more support for survivors. They also noted that digital abuse evolves fast. You need updated laws and trained staff to handle new forms of online harm.
Botswana needs stronger action to protect women and girls online. You need clear reporting paths. You need trained investigators. You need public awareness campaigns that explain digital violence in simple terms. You also need parents, schools and community leaders to guide young people on how to stay safe.
Digital spaces should support opportunities and growth. They should not expose women and girls to harm. Ending digital violence requires coordinated action from families, institutions and the justice system. The voices raised in the PCW panel make this clear.
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