The politics of violence: Understanding GBVF through African historical and social lenses

THE Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Engagement and Transformation, Professor Bryon Brown, in partnership with the Employee Wellness Unit, hosted the inaugural Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) seminar under the theme: "Influences of Western modernity and culture on GBVF in African cultures".

- SBAHLE DUMAKUDE

The seminar aimed to unpack three critical subthemes, each addressed by distinguished researchers.

Dr Ndumiso Dladla from the University of Pretoria explored “Rewriting the narrative: Understanding GBVF through the lens of colonial history”.

Dr Sithuthukile Myeni from UNIZULU's Department of Social Work presented on “The role of Africans in challenging western systems that contribute to GBVF”.

A panel discussion featuring esteemed scholars tackled the third subtheme: “A future-focused approach — reimagining innovative solutions to end GBVF in the African context”.

The event featured powerful and thought-provoking presentations that sparked deep interest and reflection among attendees, particularly around the historical roots of GBVE.

In his opening address, Prof Brown highlighted the gravity of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. He reminded attendees that they were not gathered merely as members of an academic institution, but as a united community determined to confront one of the most pressing social crises of their time. He stressed that this issue cannot be downplayed or softened. Citing a 2024 report, Prof Brown noted that South Africa’s femicide rate is among the highest in the world — approximately six times the global average. Between July and September of that year alone, 957 women were reportedly murdered by their partners, and more than 10 000 tape cases were recorded. He emphasised that in the South African context, women remain the primary victims of lifelong physical violence.