Lusikisiki Unites Against Gender-Based Violence: ‘Empower February’ Campaign Emerges as a Powerful Stand Amid Alarming Surge

In response to a disturbing surge in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases within the Lusikisiki community, local leaders and advocates, in collaboration with the anti-gender-based violence non-profit organization Rising Dawn Reflections, have urgently addressed Premier of Eastern Cape, Hon Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane. Their collective plea emphasizes the critical need for immediate action to combat the escalating rates of GBV.

Gender-Based Violence, encompassing various forms of abuse, has seen a troubling surge, affecting individuals across diverse backgrounds in Lusikisiki. Reports highlight the profound impact of GBV on the community, prompting community leaders and organizations to take a firm stand against this pervasive issue.

Recent incidents, including the tragic deaths of three female teachers and a disturbing occurrence in the Mzintlava community, where posters directed residents to the location of a deceased woman’s body, underscore the gravity of the situation. These events have prompted community leaders and non-profit organizations, such as Rising Dawn Reflections, to unite against GBV and advocate for immediate action.

Recognizing the urgency of the matter, community leaders and Rising Dawn Reflections emphasize that GBV not only harms victims but perpetuates a cycle of violence affecting families, communities, and society at large. Urgent and targeted intervention is crucial to address this crisis and protect the fundamental rights of every individual within the jurisdiction.

The proposed solution involves the launch of a comprehensive awareness campaign, aptly named “Empower February.” The campaign aims to address the root causes of GBV and educate the public on prevention, reporting mechanisms, and available support services. Odwa Mbangwa, from Rising Dawn Reflections, an anti-GBV non-profit based in Bizana, Eastern Cape, has played a pivotal role in formulating the campaign strategy, emphasizing community engagement, school programs, media campaigns, and collaboration with NGOs specializing in GBV prevention.

While acknowledging the financial requirements of the campaign, leaders and Rising Dawn Reflections stress that the long-term benefits of reducing GBV far outweigh the initial investment. A specific budget allocation is proposed, ensuring transparent and accountable financial management.

To maximize impact and create lasting awareness beyond a three-day program, leaders recommend expediting the planning and execution of the “Empower February” campaign. The timeline aims to address the urgent situation and create a lasting impression for continued awareness and action.

 

To assess the campaign’s effectiveness, a robust monitoring and evaluation system, as suggested by Rising Dawn Reflections, will be established. This will track key metrics such as reported cases, public perception, and changes in societal attitudes towards GBV.

Community leaders, Rising Dawn Reflections, and other organizations are urging residents, businesses, and institutions to actively participate in the “Empower February” campaign. Together, they aim to create a safer, more inclusive society where every individual feels secure and valued.

Addressing the rising rates of GBV demands collective commitment and strong leadership. The launch of the “Empower February” campaign, with the collaboration of community leaders and organizations like Rising Dawn Reflections, signifies a united front against GBV, demonstrating the community’s determination to combat this pervasive issue.