“From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Make Education Safe for All”

2016 marks the 25th anniversary of the social movement, ‘16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence.’ ‘16 Days’ is a global event in which countries unite and fight for women’s and girl’s rights. To commemorate this movement, WAR has been busy with a line-up of activities to sensitise people and promote awareness of gender-based violence (GBV).

“This is an inequality issue,” says Peggie, WAR’s Coordinator. “We are bringing everybody together to stand up in one voice and say, enough is enough! We want women to be equal!” Starting November 25, WAR began their campaign throughout Maun. Below are the landmark events WAR has been leading and/or participating in.

22 November

WAR Hosts ‘What can the churches in Maun do to raise Awareness and Prevent Gender Based Violence?’

As a country that is predominantly Christian, the role of the church in issues affecting society cannot be denied. The event was a moving and heartfelt discussion that ended with all church leaders pledging to raise awareness and set-up activities within their respective churches during 16 Days.

25 November

WAR Leads Activity at Tsau Family Fun Day

WAR combined fun with learning at Tsau village where kids and adults alike had an amazing time filled with lots of activities – activities aimed to address and prevent Gender Based Violence.

1 December

WAR Participates in ‘World AIDS Day Walk’

December 1^st is the internationally recognised day when nations remember those affected and infected by HIV/AIDS. In commemoration, WAR collaborated with other community organisations such as Bana Ba Letsatsi, Ngamiland District Health Management Team, community leaders, and the public to mark this day.

2 December

WAR Participates in Maun Police Crime Prevention Walk

The activities started at 6am with a walk from four points BDF junction to Moeti Cross Road followed by Maun Sports Complex and Boseja all the way to the Main Kgotla. The event drew attention to the positive impact local police have made in preventing and addressing crime. WAR gave out anti-violence ribbons and their booth spread awareness of GBV.

6 December

WAR Hosts Event at Thamalakane River Lodge to Empower Girls

On December 6^th, 1989, 12 female engineering students, 1 nursing student and member of faculty were murdered at École Polytechnique in Montreal, Canada by a young man believed to be ‘anti-feminist.’ In remembrance, WAR organised a session with school-going girls to empower them to stay in school and discuss issues affecting them such as gender based violence.

10 December

WAR Hosts Seminar Urging Community to Take Action

On this closing day, WAR gave a call to action and implored community leaders, stakeholders, and action groups to participate in a seminar for the ‘Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children.’ The event was attended by Bana Ba Letsatsi, NCONGO, police, and other community organizations who all pledged to take an active role in reducing GBV.