BUTTERWORTH- Sonke Gender Justice, a non-governmental organization(NGO) dedicated to addressing issues of HIV, STIs, family planning and gender-based violence(GBV) is celebrating a significant success in its efforts to combat sexual violence.
Within Sonke’s many projects, there is Inkanyezi Project that is funded by Global Affairs Canada for implementation in Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga provinces.
Inkanyezi Project Manager based in Eastern Cape, Butterworth. Officer Vuyokazi Gonyela announced that a traditional healer convicted of raping an initiate(Ithwasa) in Kempton Park is set to be sentenced on April 23, 2025. This achievement underscores the organization’s commitment to seeking justice for survivors of GBV.
Sonke Gender Justice’s work extends beyond legal support with initiatives like the Inkanyezi project, which focuses on empowering women in Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape.
Gonyela emphasized the organization’s inclusive approach stating, “We teach boys and men about the importance of having positive family structures. Our organization is inclusive welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities.”
Additionally, Sonke Gender Justice’s holistic approach to addressing GBV has yielded numerous successes since its inception in 2006. As the organization continues to work towards a society free from GBV, its commitment to inclusivity, education and legal support remains unwavering.
According to Vuyokazi the organization employs a multi-faceted approach to address GBV including printing pamphlets and leveraging social media to raise awareness. They also enhance women’s leadership skills and engage with men and boys.
In addition a key aspect of Sonke’s strategy is advocating for policies that improve responses to GBV. Notably, the organization was part of the Shukumisa campaign, which has been advocating for the National Strategic Plan(NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide(GBVF) for years.Furthermore Sonke also played a crucial role in advocating for the GBVF amendments which were successfully passed in 2023.
Gonyela emphasized Sonke’s commitment to capacitating individuals and leaders to deliver on their mandates and responsibilities, ultimately working towards a future where all individuals can live free from GBV.
Photograph: supplied
Photograph: Supplied
