Empowering Communities to Combat the Scourge of GBV

As with the rest of the nation, GBVF remains prevalent in the communities surrounding the Lesedi Solar Power Plant, carrying with it significant emotional, financial, physical, and psychological costs at both individual and community levels. 

As a first phase in addressing the issue, the Lesedi Solar Park Trust commissioned the Social Change Assistance Trust (SCAT) to conduct research into the situation on the ground. 

The intervention began with a comprehensive examination of the prevailing factors contributing to GBV within our communities. The GBVF Situational Analysis, conducted in 2023, provided valuable insights into the root causes, prevalence, and impact of GBV. Through a participatory approach involving community members, civil society organisations, and government agencies, the analysis identified key risk factors linked to power dynamics, poverty, and harmful gender norms.

The research exposed the pervasive nature of GBV within the communities, revealing alarming rates of violence against women and young girls. Factors such as entrenched patriarchal attitudes, economic vulnerability, and limited access to resources emerged as significant contributors. Additionally, the analysis highlighted the urgent need for targeted interventions to address underlying societal norms and perceptions perpetuating violence.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence campaign raises awareness globally, mobilises communities, and advocates for preventing and eliminating violence against women and children. This campaign takes place annually from 25 November until 10 December. Following on from the research conducted earlier in the year, SCAT convened workshops during the campaign to ensure that organisations within the communities understand the basics of what GBV is, how it impacts communities, and how they could best deal with it both legally and socially. 

Armed with a deeper understanding of the challenges at hand and along with the support of key stakeholders like SCAT and the communities themselves, the Lesedi Trust is committed to supporting and implementing prevention programs and interventions aimed at shifting harmful gender norms and reducing risk factors associated with GBV. 

Empowered by the collective efforts of community members, civil society organisations, and government agencies, the Trust envisions a future where every person can live free from the threat of violence and discrimination. By investing in targeted solutions and fostering collaboration, we hope to pave the way for lasting change and create safer, more inclusive environments for all.