Sonke Gender Justice’s Gender Based Violence Efforts

Sonke Gender Justice is a non-profit organization based in South Africa that focuses on promoting gender equality and addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the country. The organization was founded in 2006 by a group of men who were concerned about the high levels of GBV in South Africa and wanted to take action to prevent it.

Over the years, Sonke Gender Justice has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at preventing GBV, supporting survivors of GBV, and engaging men and boys in promoting gender equality. Some of the key initiatives undertaken by the organization are discussed below.

One of Sonke Gender Justice’s most successful initiatives is the One Man Can program. This program is aimed at engaging men and boys in promoting gender equality and ending GBV. The program uses a community-based approach, with workshops and trainings held in local communities across South Africa. One Man Can has been successful in mobilizing men and boys to take action against GBV, and has been replicated in other African countries.

Sonke Gender Justice has also been involved in advocacy efforts aimed at changing policy and legislation related to GBV in South Africa. The organization has lobbied for the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, which provides legal protection to survivors of domestic violence. Sonke Gender Justice has also been involved in advocating for the implementation of the Sexual Offences Act, which criminalizes various forms of sexual violence.

In addition to advocacy efforts, Sonke Gender Justice has also provided direct support to survivors of GBV. The organization operates a Gender-Based Violence Helpline, which provides support and counseling to survivors of GBV. The helpline has been successful in providing much-needed support to survivors, and has received widespread recognition for its work.

Sonke Gender Justice has also been involved in research and data collection related to GBV in South Africa. The organization has conducted research on various forms of GBV, including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and violence against LGBTI individuals. This research has helped to inform policy and programming related to GBV in South Africa.

Overall, Sonke Gender Justice has been at the forefront of efforts to address GBV in South Africa. The organization has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at preventing GBV, supporting survivors, and engaging men and boys in promoting gender equality. Through its advocacy efforts, direct support to survivors, and research and data collection, Sonke Gender Justice has made a significant contribution to the fight against GBV in South Africa.