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Deputy President Paul Mashatile, at the national kickoff of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children in Rustenburg, emphasized the dual nature of technology in today's society. While recognizing the increased risk of gender-based violence (GBV) facilitated by digital platforms, he strongly advocated for using technology as a bastion of change, protection, and empowerment.
The rise of the digital economy, initially perceived as a threat due to its potential misuse, is now being redirected to serve as a powerful ally in combating GBV. Tools like mobile apps and artificial intelligence are being leveraged to provide immediate support to victims and better understand patterns of abuse, turning them into lifelines for those in dire situations.
The GBV Command Centre is one such beacon, providing around-the-clock digital and telephonic support that has been instrumental in aiding victims. This highlights a crucial shift towards using available technological advancements to enhance prevention strategies, improve response mechanisms, and ensure comprehensive support systems are accessible to all South Africans.
Mashatile’s call for zero tolerance towards violence in digital spaces underscores the necessity to make the internet a safer space, advocating for it to be an environment where respect and safety are paramount. Access to these technological tools not only aids in immediate protective measures but also opens up new economic opportunities for women, fostering financial independence and resilience.
Moreover, the Deputy President emphasized that the battle against GBV requires consistent attention beyond the annual 16 Days of Activism. With distressing statistics from both Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) and the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)—highlighting that one in three women over 16 has experienced physical violence—the urgency for a sustained and systemic approach is clear.
The government’s commitment to this cause is anchored in the integration of these findings into the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF). This plan is designed to guide the national response, aiming to eradicate this deep-seated societal issue.
As South Africa observes this year's campaign under the theme “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” it's a poignant reminder of the progress made and the formidable challenges that still lie ahead. Through technology, community engagement, and policy, the nation continues to strive towards a safer, more inclusive society for all its citizens.