National Shutdown against GBV to go ahead despite Minister Chikunga's decision to withdraw
The “Women for Change” movement has expressed its disappointment at the Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindiswe Chikunga's decision to withdraw from participating in a shutdown highlighting the scourge of gender-based violence in the country.
The campaign has called for a national shutdown as a fight against GBV. South Africa has some of the highest levels of femicide and GBV cases worldwide.
The shutdown is expected to take place on Friday, the 21st of November, on the eve of the G20 leaders' summit at Nasrec, in the south of Johannesburg.
South Africans are expected to observe a 15-minute standstill at exactly 12 pm and refrain from participating in any economic activity for the day.
“There is no governmental support for this movement, and once again, as a non-profit organisation, we have to carry this movement and push for change,” said Women for Change spokesperson Cameron Kambala.
Kambala added that the minister has the power and influence to further advance the campaign.
However, the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities stated that actions that call for citizens to refrain from taking part in any economic activities can have a significant impact on the country's economy.
“The far greater cost is the billions our economy loses each year because of violence against women and children. Now, ending gender-based violence is not only a moral imperative, but it's an economic necessity. Because GBV costs South Africa’s economy between R28 billion and R42 billion per year," said the minister's spokesperson, Cassius Selala.
He said that the department is committed to fighting GBV for 365 days.
ALSO READ:
