05 Dec 2024

Recently, residents from the hamlets of Mosokotso, Lephaleng, Mmohung, Ga-Ntshonyana, Katswane, and Dithejwane joined communities around the globe in observing the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based Violence (GBV). 

The event spotlighted the theme 'Positive Male Role Models', focusing on promoting men’s mental health, positive masculinity, and nurturing supportive environments where men can thrive.

Welcoming guests to the kgotla, Kgosi Joshua Leselamose, headman of the settlements, expressed concern over modern men’s impatience in relationships, often resorting to violence during conflicts. 

He highlighted a troubling trend where men, post-breakup, lament over material gifts once given to their partners, which could escalate to violent behavior in attempts to reclaim the items.

Molepolole South Member of Parliament Mr Shima Monageng urged men to embrace their roles as protectors of their families rather than perpetuating a cycle of violence.  He emphasised the importance of men’s visibility in leadership and community challenges, advocating for responsible behavior as vital characteristics of a good man. 

“Men should move away from alcoholism, as it leads to irresponsibility and poor conduct within families,” he stated, underscoring the need for a cultural shift.

 He introduced a new era under the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) party, pledging a proactive stance against GBV. 

“As a new regime, we must act as fresh agents of change, especially since previous administrations have struggled with GBV. Their efforts became a weary cycle,” Monageng noted.

He asserted that love is the antidote to violence, stating, “When a man loves his family, he cannot turn violent against his loved ones.”

Mr Monageng called on men to reflect on whether their actions aligned with the teachings of love and to strive against the notion of ‘dysfunctional families,’ which are often characterised by disorder, arguments, and domestic violence, particularly among those who abuse alcohol.

 He also emphasised that respect should be reciprocal, with women and children being appreciative and supportive of their men’s efforts. 

However, he called for a reassessment of the legal system concerning serious offenses, particularly defilement cases where offenders are often released on bail shortly after arrest, calling this practice disheartening.

“Culprits of defilement must be imprisoned,” he insisted, voicing concern over the rationale some offenders provide for their actions. 

Mr Monageng said statistics showed that GBV was prevalent in Botswana, with one in three individuals affected.

The day included engaging discussions led by Chaplain Major Letlhogonolo Thabalaka of the Apostolic Faith Mission, who shared insights on ‘Positive Masculinity.’  Major Thabalaka emphasised the importance of handling men ‘with care’ to elicit positive outcomes, 

 “A man’s responses can vary significantly based on how he is treated.”

Communities of the settlements reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment free from gender-based violence. Ends