24 Nov 2024

It is important to celebrate the positive contribution men bring to communities, Kweneng Region Senior Gender Officer Ms Gorata Ntshwabi has said.

Speaking in an interview ahead of International Gender Day commemoration which will be held in Medie today,  Ms Ntshwabi said men should focus on promoting positive expressions of masculinity as it was fundamental in celebrating the value men bring to their communities.

“It is important to promote gender equality, by focusing not only on women but incorporating men as well,” said Ms Ntshwabi.

Additionally Ms Ntshwabi said  her office was focused on raising awareness about fair ways of combating gender-based violence through provision of information across different channels and ensuring its accessibility by all members of the community in order to create a culture of accountability.

She further said it was imperative to take action, unite and end violence by holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, and in the process establishing zero tolerance of violence.

Ms Ntshwabi commended the establishment of Gender and Child Protection unit by the Botswana Police Service, saying that since its inception, victims of GBV were able to report cases guaranteed of privacy and confidentiality.

She said statistics supplied by Police District No.11 indicated that there was a significant decline in cases of GBV in the first half of 2024.

The commemoration will be held under the theme: No Excuse, Unite to End Violence Against Women and Children. Ends