South Africa faces a severe crisis when it comes to gender-based violence (GBV) and men’s mental health. With 10 818 reported rape cases in just the first quarter of 2022, the country has earned the troubling title of the “rape capital of the world”.
Additionally, women are five times more likely to be killed by intimate partners in South Africa than the global average.
Gender-based violence encompasses various forms of abuse rooted in the unequal power dynamics and gender expectations within a society. According to Saferspaces, GBV broadly refers to violence that stems from societal norms and unequal gender relations.
This issue is widespread in South Africa, affecting many individuals in their homes and communities. The harm inflicted by GBV is not only immediate but also leaves deep, long-lasting scars on survivors.
Despite ongoing efforts to address this problem, violence rates remain high and many victims endure their suffering in silence due to fear of stigma or inadequate support.
Cultural and societal norms in South Africa, which can be deeply entrenched, often place rigid expectations on both men and women. While some of these norms may offer a sense of pride and identity, they can also be harmful.
Men, for instance, face societal pressure to be stoic and silent about their struggles. This expectation can have dangerous consequences, contributing to high rates of mental health issues among men.
Statistics paint a grim picture: in 2019, South Africa reported around 13 774 mental health-related deaths, with approximately 79% (10 861) being men.
This alarming rate contributes to South Africa’s position as the country with the 10th highest suicide rate globally, a statistic that underscores a broader crisis affecting both genders.
In response to these pressing issues, the Big Brothers Hug Foundation is launching its “Bowling for Change” campaign.
This initiative aims to raise awareness and tackle critical social issues including men’s mental health, gender-based violence, abuse and human trafficking. The campaign will feature a series of community events, educational workshops, and a cricket tournament designed to engage and educate the public.
The release of the second-quarter crime statistics for 2023/2024 paints a troubling picture for South Africa. The figures reveal 10 516 reported rapes, 1 514 cases of attempted murder, and 14 401 assaults related to gender-based violence (GBV).
These numbers underscore a serious threat to the safety and well-being of South Africans, reflecting the high prevalence of GBV and other violent crimes.
In light of these distressing statistics, everyone must pay attention to these issues, as they directly affect our communities and daily lives.
One proactive approach to address these challenges is through educational programs that empower individuals with knowledge and practical tools to combat violence and enhance safety.
The upcoming Bowling for Change campaign, launched by the Big Brothers Hug Foundation, aims to tackle these pressing issues through various initiatives:
Video messages: Renowned South African cricketer Aaron Phangiso and the boys from the Phangiso C.A.P Academy will share impactful video messages. These videos will focus on mental health awareness, the impact of GBV, and the dangers of human trafficking.
Engagement with Special Schools: Interactive sessions will be held in the Madibeng Municipality, targeting students of different ages and educational levels. These sessions will educate students about mental health, GBV, and human trafficking in a manner suited to their needs.
Workshops and seminars: Organised with mental health professionals and advocates, these sessions will promote a culture of support within the community. Topics will include coping strategies, support systems, and methods to combat GBV and human trafficking.
Cricket tournament: During the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a one-day cricket event will bring the community together. The tournament will feature local teams and educational stalls to raise awareness about the campaign’s message.
School visitations: Ongoing visits to schools will offer educational workshops and interactive sessions on building resilience, understanding mental health, and preventing GBV and human trafficking.
Tshepiso James Kwakwa, Founder of the Big Brothers Hug Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign: “We are thrilled to launch the Bowling for Change campaign, which addresses some of the most pressing issues in our community today.
“By combining the power of sports, education, and community engagement, we aim to foster a supportive environment and drive meaningful change.”
This campaign represents a significant step towards a safer, more informed South Africa, addressing the critical issues of GBV and mental health with a comprehensive and community-focused approach.