Let us stand in solidarity against gender-based violence

From 25 November, South African enters a period of mourning for its dual pandemics.

The Covid-19 pandemic has lead to the deaths of over 20 000 people, while the scourge of gender-based violence continues to have a dire impact on South Africans. During an address to the public on 11 November, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the country would mark the devastating loss due to the pandemic from 25 to 29 November. He noted that the date also marks the start of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, which has become a ‘second pandemic’ in the country.

The coronavirus pandemic has devastated not only South Africa, but nations around the world. Over 55 million people have contracted the virus, which has lead to more than 1.3 million deaths.

Ramaphosa said, “We call upon all South Africans to demonstrate their solidarity and do this in remembrance of our countrymen and women, in recognition of the grief that we share as a nation, and as an affirmation of our determination to overcome this devastating disease,” he said. “As a nation, let us continue to do what we know must be done to keep ourselves and others safe. Let us continue to demonstrate that we are a people of resilience and courage.

“Let us show that we care for one another in sorrow, sickness and in death. It is our individual actions over the next few weeks and months that will decide the fortunes of our nation.” During the 16-day period, government together with civil society and the private sector will host a series of community and sector dialogues and activities to foster a collaborative effort in dealing with gender-based violence