Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to rob Africa of its future, taking away the lives, hopes, and dreams of women and children, both young and old.
According to the World Bank Group, 42% of women in Eastern and Southern Africa face physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. These numbers have victims and survivors to them, which negatively impacts women from leading normal and fulfilling lives that are safe and free from harm.
Rebecca Cheptegei (22 February 1991 – 5 September 2024) was a Ugandan long-distance and marathon runner. She holds the national record for a marathon in a non-mixed race. She represented Uganda in various World Championships and competed in the women's marathon at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
A week ago, a search for her name would have highlighted her Olympic achievements. Today, the search results are dominated by news of her death from across the globe—a death that was both tragic and unjust. At the age of 33, she lost her life due to severe burns inflicted by a former partner. As we remember and honour her remarkable career and accomplishments, we also take a stand against gender-based violence (GBV). Rebecca’s life was tragically cut short by this violence, leaving a significant void. Our deepest condolences go out to her family, loved ones, her country, and the sports community. May she rest in peace.
Her story is just one of many documented cases, and even then, we hold onto hope that justice will be served and her killer will be imprisoned. Countless others remain undocumented, untold, and unheard, with many more women and children enduring injustice in silence. As Sandiswa Sondzaba aptly noted, “We all know that GBV is a form of violence that thrives in both the public and private spheres.”
At Africa Matters Initiative, we condemn these horrific acts. GBV not only violates the fundamental rights of individuals but also undermines the collective progress of our continent. This progress cannot exist without women and children feeling safe and free from fear for their lives.
GBV has no place in our society!
We must all commit to standing against this violence, ensuring that every African woman and child can live, thrive, and contribute to building a better future. Together, we must break the silence, break the cycle, and end gender-based violence.
Kommentare