Afrika Tikkun pushes for disability-inclusive policies in GBV fight
With the 16 Days of Activism underway, Afrika Tikkun is calling for more investment in early education and disability-inclusive programmes to end gender-based violence.
As South Africa observes 30 years of collective action under the theme, 30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children, Afrika Tikkun is calling for urgent, inclusive measures to combat gender-based violence (GBV), particularly affecting women and children with disabilities.
Afrika Tikkun, based in Hyde Park, is a leading youth development non-profit organisation.
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The 16 Days of Activism, running from November 25 to December 10, has brought awareness to GBV, but systemic failures and inadequate action have allowed the violence to persist.
Afrika Tikkun highlights the disproportionate effects of GBV on women and children living with disabilities, urging a shift towards more inclusive policies and targeted interventions.
Recent research from the Human Sciences Research Council reveals that more than 31% of women with disabilities in South Africa have endured sexual or physical violence in their lifetime.
This rate is notably higher than for women without disabilities, with sexual violence by a partner being twice as common among women with disabilities.
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Marc Lubner, the executive chairperson of Afrika Tikkun, emphasised the need for disability inclusion in the fight against GBV.
“Disability inclusion must become a core focus in the fight against GBV. This means creating inclusive policies that ensure the safety, dignity, and protection of the most vulnerable,” he said.
Lubner added Afrika Tikkun had been working to address these issues through its various programmes.
“The organisation’s Anti-Violence Buddies (ages 4-6) teach young children about abuse in an age-appropriate manner, while the Young Urban Women programme provides a platform for girls to discuss GBV, women’s health, and empowerment. Additionally, the Young Urban Men programme encourages positive role models and addresses issues young men face.”
Tiyani Mohlaba, COO of Afrika Tikkun, stressed the importance of early education to challenge harmful attitudes towards gender equality and GBV.
“Investing in targeted educational campaigns is crucial to challenge harmful attitudes and promote equality.”
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