CCL partners GiZ to tackle gender violence hot spot

MOSA MAOENG

BUTHE-BUTHE – The Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL) launched the “Ke Kabelo ea ka” flagship project with the support of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GIZ in an effort to combat gender-based violence (GBV).  The project aims to engage religious and traditional leaders in addressing the scourge of GBV that plagues communities across the country.

As custodians of culture and morality, these leaders are seen as pivotal in shifting the societal norms that have long perpetuated violence against women and girls. Butha-Buthe, a district known for its high incidence of GBV, was chosen as the launch site for the project, which underscores the urgency of the situation.  Religious and traditional actors are being called upon to play a more active role in sensitising their communities about women’s rights, challenging harmful social norms, and ultimately reducing GBV.

The stakes are high, and the message is clear: change must start at the grassroots level, and everyone has a role to play. As the violence against women and girls continues to spread nationwide, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (AACP) Mpolokeng Shale shared harrowing details of the situation in Butha-Buthe.

“We are currently facing a disturbing rise in violence, particularly against children aged 11 to 13 and the elderly, some as old as 65,” she said. Her voice carried the weight of her words as she recounted a recent case in which two men raped an elderly woman.

“The old woman fought back, biting one of her attackers, whose scream alerted neighbours who rushed to her aid.”

Shale said tackling gender-based violence requires a united effort. “We often visit areas with the highest crime rates to address these issues directly. Together, we can reduce these crimes. As the Sesotho saying goes, ‘Letšoele le beta poho’ (the crowd conquers the bull). By December, a time when criminal activities usually spike, I believe the rate of GBV will have decreased. Parents need to engage with their children, and men must stop the violence against their families.”

The urgency of the situation is evident, but it is also an opportunity for change. CCL Chairperson Bishop Monaheng Sekese spoke passionately about the critical role of religious and traditional leaders in promoting gender equality.

“Gender equality is not just a matter of biology; it is deeply rooted in Basotho cultural, religious, and social structures. Religious leaders, with their profound influence, can be powerful advocates for change,” he said.

Sekese highlighted how religious teachings can be a tool for promoting gender equality. “When religious leaders advocate for equality, they send a strong message that men and women are created equal in the eyes of God. By interpreting religious texts in ways that emphasise the value and dignity of all individuals, regardless of gender, they can challenge outdated and patriarchal interpretations that have long justified discrimination.”

He also pointed to the role of traditional healers, who hold a unique position in many communities as custodians of culture and tradition.

“It is essential to recognise that culture is not static; it evolves with time. Traditional leaders can help guide this evolution by challenging harmful practices and promoting gender equality.”

The “KE KABELO EA KA” project, which translates to “It is my responsibility,” seeks to instil a sense of collective responsibility for ending GBV. The project’s objectives are ambitious yet necessary. They include publicising the GBV prevention initiative, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting dialogue within the faith community and beyond. Social media platforms are also being used to amplify these messages and engage a broader audience.

The launch event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, all united by a common goal: to end the violence that has devastated so many lives. The CCL, established in 1965, has a long history of advocating for social justice and national unity. With the support of GIZ and other partners, CCL is now taking its fight against GBV to the next level.

This flagship project is part of a broader initiative under the Partnerships for the Prevention of GBV in Southern Africa. It aims to strengthen collaboration between faith-based organisations, government agencies, and community leaders, ensuring that the fight against GBV is comprehensive and coordinated.

The journey toward gender equality is long and challenging, but it is a journey that must be taken. As Sekese aptly put it, “The journey toward gender equality requires the collective efforts of all sectors of society. Religious, traditional, and other community leaders have the power to influence attitudes, challenge stereotypes, and reshape norms. Their leadership is crucial in creating a world where every individual, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.”

In the coming months, as the “KE KABELO EA KA” project gains momentum, the hope is that communities across Lesotho will begin to see a shift—a shift toward a future where women and girls are safe, respected, and empowered.