Ramaphosa urges men to lead the fight against GBV as 16 days of activism begin
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on men and boys to play a central role in ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as South Africa marks the start of the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
The campaign runs from 25 November to 10 December 2025, with this year’s theme: 'Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)."
It focuses on promoting positive masculinity and encouraging men to challenge harmful social norms actively.
Speaking at the recently held G20 Social Summit, President Ramaphosa said no society can thrive for as long as gender-based violence and femicide continue and the agency of women is denied.
"The violence perpetrated by men against women erodes the social fabric of nations. Men and boys are critical partners in transforming harmful norms and advancing gender justice. They must be actively involved in challenging inherited attitudes, power imbalances and social structures that normalise violence and silence survivors."
This year marks the 27th anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, which has highlighted the societal and systemic causes of violence against women and children while mobilising communities to take action.
As part of the campaign, President Ramaphosa will address a Men’s Indaba against GBVF next week, on Thursday, in the Free State.
The event, organised by the office of the Premier, aims to engage men in practical strategies to prevent and respond to GBVF.
The President’s call underscores a growing national focus on involving men in promoting gender justice and dismantling cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
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