Botswana: Gender-based violence in Botswana is increasing day by day in the country, and studies believe that one of the major reasons for GBV is Drug abuse.
A few days back, Village leaders, Dikgosi and pastors rallied to raise awareness and tackle the pervasive issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The drive was part of a preliminary mobilization leading up to the official launch of the 16 Days activism against violence against women and children.
Botswana Minister of Defence and Security Thomas Kagiso Mmusi said at the 16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children this morning (24 November 2023) at Mogoditshane- Tsolamosese, “I am aware that most in most instances cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) are attributed to women and girl child whereas male or boy child is also affected.”
The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture of Botswana hosted the event.
The Minister pleaded with Batswana to also remember the boy child at all times and went on to say even the fathers must not be left behind as they are also an integral part in ending GBV. The theme for this year’s event is “Unite! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Children”.
The Minister continued by saying, “Most of the time, the abuse of drugs causes violence, and I want to stand here and say let’s all stand as one and say NO TO DRUGS if we can fight the use of illicit drugs; I can assure you we will also win against gender-based violence”.
The Minister said drugs are seen every day, whether in our homes, schools even by friends and is worrisome; he assured Batswana that the police and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) are fighting day and night to end the drug problem in the country and pleaded for support from the Nation and they cannot win the fight alone.
Minister Mmusi thanked the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Tumiso Macdonald Rakgare, for hosting such a big event in the Tsolamosese area.
“I also thank everyone who made sure this event is a success, not forgetting the Mogoditshane, Tsolamosese, and Lesirane residents for supporting the event,” said Minister Mmusi.
The Minister also pleaded with the residents to spread the message of anti-GBV in their homes, or everywhere they are, as it will make a great difference in winning against GBV.