In observance of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Botswana Police Service (BPS) Air Support Branch hosted a kgotla meeting aimed at raising public awareness about the prevalence of GBV in the country. The event took place on December 4, 2024, at Block 8 kgotla in Gaborone, beginning with a walk from the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport circle.
The event brought together community members, stakeholders, and representatives from various sectors to address the pressing issue of GBV. Block 8 Customary Court President, Kgosi Kenneth Kgari, delivered the keynote address, where he commended the police for their tireless efforts in combating GBV. Kgosi Kgari emphasized that the police not only provide immediate protection and justice for victims but also play a critical role in shifting societal attitudes towards GBV.
Kgosi Kgari urged all stakeholders to join forces in the fight against GBV, describing it as a societal illness that requires collective action. He highlighted the importance of open discussions about GBV within families and communities, urging individuals to refrain from condoning or accepting abusive behavior, which often leads to further violence.
Assistant Commissioner Lerunne Seema, Deputy Director (Operations) of the BPS Air Support Branch, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that GBV is a national concern that necessitates a multifaceted approach. Mr. Seema stressed the need for community sensitization and active involvement in finding solutions to this issue. He reminded the public about the availability of the BPS Child-Friendly Centres, encouraging them to use these resources to report any incidents of violence against children.
A particularly concerning issue raised by Mr. Seema was the tendency of some victims to withdraw cases of abuse, which ultimately perpetuates the cycle of violence. He called on the public to stand firm in their pursuit of justice for victims and ensure that GBV cases are not dismissed or ignored.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Michael Billy, Crime Prevention Chairperson at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport Police Station. Mr. Billy expressed his gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their involvement in the event, citing the impressive attendance as a sign of the community’s commitment to ending GBV. He encouraged participants to share the message of prevention and awareness with their families and friends, reinforcing the importance of spreading the word on the issue.
Mr. Billy also urged the community to actively participate in crime prevention committees, noting that these committees are essential in allowing communities to police themselves and tackle local issues according to their needs.
The kgotla meeting, held under the theme “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Children,” was a significant step in fostering collaboration and awareness in the fight against gender-based violence. The event emphasized the need for a united approach to create a safer and more equitable environment for women and children in Botswana.
