Launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Natalie Nyathi

Today marks the beginning of the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. This international campaign runs from November 25th to December 10th and aims to raise awareness and mobilize action to end gender-based violence.

This year, the campaign carries particular significance as many organizations and governments are focusing on the growing issue of digital violence against women and girls. Technology, while offering many benefits, has also become a tool for harassment, abuse, and control.

In South Africa, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, led by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, is launching the campaign under the theme “LETSEMA,” a Sesotho/Setswana word meaning “working together for a common purpose.” This theme emphasizes the collective responsibility of all members of society—men, women, boys, girls, and media houses—in ending gender-based violence and femicide. The South African campaign aims to integrate resolutions from the G20 High-Level Dialogue of Leaders, promoting positive masculinity, challenging harmful gender norms, and encouraging gender equality.

Globally, the UNiTE campaign is also focusing on digital violence, calling for governments to pass and enforce laws against digital abuse, for tech companies to ensure platform safety, and for individuals to speak out and support survivors.

The 16 Days of Activism serves as a crucial reminder that ending violence against women and children requires a united front and sustained commitment from all sectors of society.