The Officer Commanding District No. 4 (Lobatse), Senior Superintendent Sarah Gabathusi, has called on men to become mentors and change agents in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Speaking at a GBV workshop organized for male police officers in Lobatse on December 3, 2024, Ms. Gabathusi emphasized the need for men to be actively involved in promoting gender equality and addressing the root causes of GBV.
The workshop, which was held as part of the ongoing 16 Days of Activism against GBV, focused on preventative measures and the importance of building a more inclusive society. Ms. Gabathusi stressed that engaging men in conversations about GBV is crucial to breaking down harmful stereotypes and fostering an environment where gender equality can thrive. By empowering men to lead these conversations, the hope is to create a lasting impact on reducing GBV rates and promoting healthier relationships.
One of the key highlights of the workshop was a discussion on the Botswana Police Service’s (BPS) intervention strategies, including the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the handling of GBV cases by police officers. These procedures aim to ensure that law enforcement officers are equipped with the tools and knowledge to effectively respond to GBV incidents while providing support for victims.
Ms. Gabathusi also encouraged the participants to form peer support groups, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health in addressing GBV. She noted that peer support groups offer a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, reduce feelings of isolation, and build emotional resilience. She also stressed the need for promoting positive masculinity to prevent mental health issues such as depression, which can sometimes contribute to harmful behavior.
Assistant District Commissioner for Lobatse, Mr. Kabelo Ntopo, who gave a vote of thanks at the event, praised the Botswana Police Service for organizing the workshop. He emphasized that such platforms allow men to open up, share their experiences, and seek support. Mr. Ntopo urged men to honor their responsibilities and act in a responsible manner in all aspects of their lives. He further encouraged the participants to speak out about their grievances, ensuring that their voices are heard and addressed.
The workshop, held under the theme “Promoting Men’s Mental Health for Positive Masculinity,” was supported by several facilitators, including representatives from BONELA, BARP, DHMT Lobatse, NAHPA, BDF Rakhuna Men’s Sector, and Key Code Investment. These organizations joined forces to provide valuable insights and resources to the attendees, further reinforcing the message of shared responsibility and action in the fight against GBV.
By involving men in these critical discussions and fostering a culture of support, the workshop aimed to make significant strides towards addressing GBV and creating a society where gender equality is a fundamental value.
