Speaking out against sexual and gender-based violence
“With tears of joy, I thank you for this workshop because it saved the life of someone who was about to commit suicide. She was saying her husband was abusing her and no one seemed to understand her, but after the workshop she confided in me.”
Sexual and gender-based violence is a huge issue in our partner communities. The situation has worsened since the challenges of COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions. In South Africa, there was a 500% increase in reported cases and there will be so many more which are never reported because of fear, stigma and secrecy. That’s why E3 and our partners are seeking to raise awareness, change behaviour, support those affected and protect those who are vulnerable.
In 2021, E3 and our partners ran 78 gender-based violence workshops in local churches, schools and community halls. We reached 3,685 church leaders, community leaders and young people.
Here’s what some of the participants say
“It’s good that as women we can now begin to dialogue about these issues, especially with men, as culture disallowed this kind of discussion in the past.”
— Female pastor
“We also need to consider male victims. We are happy to have this kind of discussion in the church environment and now we have the responsibility to extend this to our communities.”
— Male pastor
“Gender-based violence victims are also present in church, but are scared to come out because they fear being victimised.”
— Female pastor