The faith sector is a critical stakeholder in the national whole-society initiative to bringing an end to the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) plaguing South Africa. This is the view of Ms Tamara Braam, who has recently led a consultative process reviewing the first 5 years of the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBV and Femicide.
She was presenting a brief overview at the Faith Action Collective to End GBV’s August Forum meeting. She reminded the 50+ participants that the NSP was born out of feminist activism andhas been instrumental in strengthening the country’s response to GBVF.
Braam stressed the need for a 360-degree approach to accountability that goes beyond the state and includes institutions, leaders, and individuals across all sectors – including the faith sector. This means that, as the faith sector, we also need to be accountable to each other and to our people for our involvement, or lack thereof, in the work to end GBV.
The Power of Partnerships
Braam emphasised that partnerships are crucial for building trust, fostering innovation, and providing courage to challenge harmful systems. She highlighted the pivotal role of the faith sector in this effort, which contributes to:
- Accountability: Spearheading initiatives like the Faith Action Collective’s Interfaith Statement and Interfaith Summit.
- Prevention: Promoting positive values, strengthening community bonds, and running awareness campaigns. The Collective’s Faith Leaders Gender Transformation Programme drives transformation at individual and organisation level.
- Response: Partners of the Collective are establishing safe spaces, offering counselling, and collaborating with the government to improve services in marginalised communities.
Ultimately, Braam’s message emphasised the importance of working together and holding all sectors accountable for the country to move closer to its goal of a GBV-free society.