Durban:KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has urged women in the faith sector to leverage their influence within religious communities to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and foster safer environments for women and children.
According to South African Government News Agency, Ntuli made these remarks during the Women in Clergy Workshop in Durban on Friday, part of the provincial government's ongoing initiatives to address GBVF. The workshop is integral to the province's strategy of engaging all societal sectors in the fight against crimes that harm women's dignity, fracture families, and weaken social unity.
The Premier drew inspiration from the women who protested against apartheid pass laws in 1956, encouraging women clergy to exhibit similar courage and unity in tackling today's social challenges facing women. Ntuli highlighted that eradicating GBVF demands a collective effort from government, law enforcement, traditional leaders, civil society, communities, and faith-based organizations.
The workshop emphasized the critical role of churches and religious institutions in supporting survivors, promoting behavioral change, and challenging violence-perpetuating attitudes. Delegates concurred that the pulpit must be a powerful platform for justice, healing, and protection, with women in clergy committing to use their leadership to speak out against abuse and create safe spaces for violence victims.
Discussions also stressed the importance of religious institutions' involvement in strengthening families, promoting moral regeneration, and rebuilding communities affected by violence. Ntuli reaffirmed the provincial government's dedication to collaborating with the faith sector and other partners to ensure that the fight against GBVF remains a continuous priority throughout the year.
The workshop reinforced the message that ending violence against women and children requires more than effective law enforcement; it demands leadership and accountability within homes, congregations, and communities.
