11 Feb 2025

Faith and action must go hand in hand to fight the most pressing moral and societal crisis of our time, gender-based violence (GBV), says Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Ms Lesego Chombo at a GBV prevention and response training for faith leaders in Gaborone on Monday. 

She said GBV was not only a societal issue or legal challenge, but also a profound moral and spiritual crisis that undermined the dignity of individuals and the stability of families, communities and the nation. 

Ms Chombo said GBV was a painful reality affecting all. 

“If one does not experience GBV, they are for certain affected by its effects, directly or indirectly. This therefore makes GBV a national emergency demanding a unified and unwavering response,” she said. 

She said GBV inevitably denied the nation meaningful contribution of women and men, as it left visible wounds and deep emotional scars as it eroded the spirit and self-worth of survivors. 

She also said GBV desecrated the sacredness of human intimacy, deprived individual independence especially that of women security’s and continued to reinforce gender inequality. 

“Let us note that all these are contrary not only to the teachings of the Christian faith but other religions that teach the values of love, justice and respect for human dignity,” she said. 

The minister said religious leaders held an influential position in society as individuals and the nation trusted them for counsel, and turn to them in times of crisis or need. 

Therefore, she said such made them agents of change and put them in a unique position to sponsor religious norms, beliefs and practices that shunned GBV and promoted values of equality, love and justice. 

She further said the church was a sanctuary for survivors, a place where those who suffered in silence found compassion, protection, care and support without judgement or blame. 

She said Proverbs 31:8-9 challenged them to defend the helpless, speak up for those who could not speak for themselves, and to ensure justice for those being crushed. 

“We need your voices to raise awareness about GBV from the pulpit, reinforcing messages of zero tolerance. We need your voices in offering balanced and gender sensitive pastoral counselling and support to survivors without judgment or taking sides,” she said. 

Minister Chombo said they needed faith leaders to work closely with law enforcement agencies and the justice system to hold perpetrators accountable. 

“We need you to teach unbiased messages to women, girls, men and boys about respect of each other, positive masculinity and the importance of gender equality,” she said. 

She also said they needed the voices of the clergy in challenging outdated traditions that perpetuated inequality and harm women and children. 

Ms Chombo further said it was imperative that as they preached and taught in their various congregations and assemblies, they stressed the importance of individuals role in ensuring that their neighbor was protected and supported to enjoy life as God had ordained. ENDS