By Tendai Mbanje and Ludo Sekga
Botswana, often lauded for its stability and peace in the heart of Southern Africa, faces a troubling challenge of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The nation's police service reported alarming statistics of 60 rape cases, 19 murders, and 13 defilements in the festive period between the 19th of December and the 2nd of January 2025. The rise of GBV and its patterns requires urgent attention and has prompted calls for action from numerous actors, particularly the government. With less than three months as the nation’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko steps into a pivotal role at a critical time. With his glowing record of human rights protection and advocacy, many wonder if he will take decisive actions to address this deep-seated social epidemic in the country.
The Reality of GBV in Botswana
Despite being traditionally known as a beacon of hope in the region, Botswana has not been immune to the global scourge of GBV. Statistics indicate that almost 70% of women in the country have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. This is often at the hands of family members or romantic partners. The prevalence of GBV in the country is usually attributed to entrenched patriarchal norms, economic inequalities, and a culture that often sees women as inferior.
Despite efforts by various stakeholders including CSOs and international organizations, Botswana's response to GBV has always fallen short of what is necessary to protect and empower vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls. This is palpable from the recent national outrage following the release of the aforementioned statistics. Citizens have called for more robust legal frameworks and effective enforcement mechanisms, particularly with the situation that sees many victims without access to justice and support services.
The recently appointed Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, 26-year-old Lesego Chombo, has come under fire in this regard following her unprecedented silence in the days following the revelation of the shocking GBV reports. Many concerned Batswana took to her social media pages to call for her statement and the ministry's strategy regarding the crisis.
Duma Boko: A New Hope or a Stalled Progress?
As the first elected President from Botswana’s opposition party- the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Boko has a platform to influence change. His election has been heralded as a new dawn and raised many expectations and hopes in the nation. Boko's past political stance indicates a commitment to social justice and equality, which are crucial in the fight against GBV. Political will, however, often encounters systemic resistance and Botswana’s history has highlighted similar challenges.
In December, the country’s Parliament shot down a motion tabled by Kgatleng West litigator Dr Unity Dow. The failed motion sought to increase the protection of victims of GBV through the establishment of peace desks at magistrates courts for example. This was seen by many as a practical and timely measure that could strengthen the existing legislative instruments in the country, which are often deemed slow and ineffective. The motion however was not passed in what many have since labelled as a blunder driven by political factions within the nation’s parliament. The question remains as to whether Boko will leverage his position to push for measures to address GBV or whether the failed motion is the beginning of missed opportunities in his term.
The situation in the country has opened up debates around measures to combat GBV with many demanding stricter laws against GBV, improved victim support services, and thorough police training to handle cases with sensitivity and urgency. Further, there is an identified need for public awareness campaigning to challenge societal norms that enable violence and discrimination against women.
Analysts point to the need for a multi-faceted approach to the issue. They argue that Boko must advocate for greater collaboration between government entities, civil society, and international organizations. Funding for programs that provide education, legal aid, and psychosocial support for victims is also lauded as a catalyst for much-needed structures. There is also a need for relevant government ministries and departments to come out audibly and visibly in the face of this crisis. It is only through a holistic approach that Botswana can hope to turn the tide against GBV.
Challenges Ahead
Boko's journey is complicated by the political landscape in Botswana. The former ruling party the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), has historically been accused of neglecting GBV issues. As leaders of the opposition, Boko and his cabinet face the daunting task of correcting systemic wrongs in this regard. Their success may hinge on their ability to galvanize public support and mobilize grassroots movements.
In addition, there is the undeniable challenge of contextualizing gender equality in the nation’s socio-economic issues. South Africa’s pervasive GBV crisis serves as a cautionary tale—while progress can be made in policies, economic disparities often lead to sustained violence against women. Boko will need to frame GBV within a larger context of economic empowerment and social justice to foster a broader dialogue.
Conclusion
Botswana stands at a crossroads. The urgency of the GBV crisis poses a significant test for the leadership of President Boko. As he takes on this vital issue, the hopes of many rests on his ability to translate political rhetoric into tangible action. The well-being of countless women and children depends on leaders willing to confront the uncomfortable truths of their society and provide the necessary resources and support to enact real change. Only time will tell if Duma Boko will rise to this critical challenge or if Botswana will continue to grapple with the shadows of gender-based violence in the way it always has. The call to action is clear and the repercussions of inaction could be dire for the fabric of this society.
