It’s unacceptable for leaders to undermine women’ says Shabangu

During a press briefing on government’s response to the latest incidents of gender-based violence, Shabangu said leaders cannot be allowed to undermine women.

“The issue of leaders who make sexual overtures is unacceptable. There is no way we would allow that. There is no way in which we can allow leaders who continue to allow women. This is a matter that will be looked at by relevant structures which can then deal with it."

She says her department is working hard to address the scourge of violence against women.

“Violence against women does not just happen in black communities. It’s a problem across various communities. If you work on the ground you will understand what goes on. We have been engaging at various levels and national dialogues. We working on the ground, it might not be in the public sphere but we are working on this,” she says.

Shabangu says violence against women and children cannot only be fought during the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

“We decided that we are not going to only address violence against women and children only during the 16 days of no violence against women in our society. We are going to make it 365 days campaign. Hence we talk about '#365 days count me in', where we are mobilising society, including men. We believe we are on the right path and society accepts we cannot address issues facing women without involving men. We need to make sure men contribute to changing attitudes and behaviour.”