The scourge of Gender-based Violence (GBV) continues to cause harm in society daily, affecting millions worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly one in three (30%) women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at the hands of their intimate partners or non-partners. Framed by the gruesome realities that women go through and not just the numbers translated into statistics, the fight against GBV calls for ongoing and sustained commitment, beyond a single yearly 16-day campaign.

While GBV is widely recognised to be affecting women the most, it is crucial to acknowledge that there are men who are also victims of GBV. Stigma is cited as one of the factors that discourage men from reporting abuse, leading to underreporting and inadequate support for male victims. Therefore, recognising and responding to the experiences of all genders is essential to addressing GBV effectively.

As the primary carrier for public content and messaging, the SABC plays a critical role in fighting GBV and heightening public consciousness. Through daily programming that cuts across news coverage, public service announcements (PSAs) and educational series incorporated into various television storylines and radio shows, the SABC continues to prioritise key discussions on national platforms to raise awareness on GBV-related matters.

The SABC also uses a combination of impactful programming and Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives, to remain steadfast in addressing the prevalence GBV and its dire impact on society.

In its quest to fulfil its social responsibility, the public broadcaster works with relevant stakeholders to jointly spread the messages to fight this corrosive epidemic through its CSI initiatives. In support of the upcoming 16 Days of Activism, the SABC has partnered with Gender Based Violence Fund (GBV), LifeLine and Tears Foundation to amplify efforts to combat GBV through PSAs that will be aired on TV and radio in various languages to engage diverse audiences, maximising reach and resonance.

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These partnerships play a pivotal role in ensuring that GBV messages are disseminated broadly and effectively, reaching even the most remote corners of the country. These collective efforts ensure that survivors, regardless of their location or circumstances, are empowered with knowledge and have access to the help and support they need to rebuild their lives. By leveraging the SABC’s power of reach, vital information about GBV prevention, reporting mechanisms, and available resources is made accessible to those who need it most.

It was during the global Coronavirus outbreak, when President Cyril Ramaphosa described GBV as a ‘second pandemic’, due to the alarming surge in GBV cases and its devastating outcomes on individuals and communities. The SABC’s determination to heighten awareness pertaining to this social ill is compounded by the fact that this form of violence continues to occur daily and has steadily become a big threat to social stability. The public broadcaster recognises that addressing GBV is an urgent societal priority that demands collaborative action at every level. Through strategic partnerships, it has been able to strengthen national response to GBV whilst ensuring that survivors are adequately supported, heard, and protected.

By collaborating with NGOs dedicated to tackling GBV head-on, the SABC is committed to promoting community engagement and encouraging collective actions to prevent and combat GBV. Additionally, these partnerships help to create a unified front against violence, encouraging community involvement and systemic change.

The public broadcaster pledges its unwavering support in the fight against the GBV monster that seeks to destroy the fabric of our society. The victory in the fight against GBV calls for consistent, coordinated efforts, and the SABC will embark on more collaborations and efforts to fight GBV. Putting a definite end to GBV is a shared responsibility, requiring action from individuals, communities, and institutions. Together, we can create a future where GBV is no longer tolerated

By: Lebohang Sekete (Manager: Internal Communications) and Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations)