The North West provincial government, in collaboration with several NGOs, organized a men’s march against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in Mahikeng yesterday. The march comes amid rising concerns over the prevalence of GBVF in the province, particularly in student areas, as highlighted by recent crime statistics.
Rising GBVF Cases Prompt Action
Provincial crime statistics for the fourth quarter reveal a troubling increase in gender-based violence, with rape cases alone declining by only 4.8%—a figure officials say is not enough to curb the crisis. The march, led by the MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, and the MEC for Social Development, emphasized the need for men to take a stand against GBVF.
MEC Morweng stressed that while there has been progress in securing harsher sentences for perpetrators, more must be done to prevent crimes before they occur. “Men are the main perpetrators of gender-based violence, and we must address this as a societal crisis,” he said.
Challenges in Prosecution and Victim Support
One of the key challenges in fighting GBVF is the high rate of case withdrawals by victims due to fear, intimidation, or reconciliation with perpetrators. Morweng urged victims to stand firm and allow the justice system to take its course, warning that withdrawing cases often leads to repeat offenses.
Additionally, police have been instructed to improve their handling of GBVF cases by ensuring victims are treated with dignity and privacy in designated victim-friendly rooms. Morweng condemned past incidents of secondary victimization at police stations, where survivors were mocked or discouraged from reporting.
Call for Societal Change
The march, which began at Montshioa Stadium and ended at Mahikeng Stadium, aimed to engage men in conversations about toxic masculinity, anger management, and accountability. The provincial government plans to expand psychosocial support programs to address underlying issues contributing to violent behavior.
The event also highlighted the need for male victims of GBV to come forward, as stigma and poor treatment at police stations often deter them from seeking help.
A National Crisis
The march follows widespread outrage over recent femicide cases, including the murder of Olorato Mongale, which has reignited national debates on GBVF. The North West government has pledged to intensify awareness campaigns and strengthen partnerships with law enforcement to combat the scourge.
As the march concluded, participants called for sustained action, emphasizing that ending GBVF requires not only legal measures but also a fundamental shift in societal attitudes.