Unite for Change: Tackling Gender-Based Violence Together

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a universally pervasive issue, devastating lives and undermining our collective progress toward a healthier, more equitable society. Following the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, we at Reach Digital Health continue to engage in efforts against this societal epidemic and we are proud to stand alongside our partners.

A Collective Call to Action

At the recent Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) Forum in Cape Town, a coalition of private sector and civil society leaders, including Reach Digital Health, Brands on a Mission, SPAR, Anglo America, and South African Breweries (SAB), came together to discuss actionable solutions to prevent and respond to GBV. This session underscored an urgent truth: ending GBV requires collective, cross-sector commitment.

From this forum, several key takeaways emerged that guide our collective approach to this critical issue:

• Time is an Investment: Building trust and meaningful partnerships across sectors takes time and effort. At Reach, we’ve seen how investing in relationships leads to innovative solutions, like the co-creation of our gamified SafeSigns chatbot aimed at reducing intimate partner violence.
• Break Down Silos: Pluralistic spaces for open dialogue enable diverse voices to contribute to solutions. Inclusive formats are essential to challenging preconceptions and fostering genuine collaboration.
• Everyone Has a Role: Whether it’s reframing harmful gender norms or creating safe spaces for survivors, each sector, corporates, civil society, and government, brings unique strengths to the table.

Reach’s Commitment to Addressing GBV

At Reach Digital Health, tackling GBV goes beyond being an organisational focus, it’s a deep commitment to fostering safety, dignity, and equity. Through our digital health platforms, we provide survivors with vital support and empower communities with the knowledge they need to prevent violence. Using tools like WhatsApp, we deliver personalised messages to thousands, helping individuals recognise abuse, access critical resources, and seek timely help.

Our work with Young Africa Live underscores the importance of engaging boys, men, and fathers in these conversations, challenging harmful norms and advancing gender equality. By combining this with real-time, tailored support, we’re not only addressing GBV, we’re actively working to prevent it.

Collaborating for Long-Term Impact

The private sector holds a powerful opportunity to move beyond traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and integrate anti-GBV initiatives directly into their core business strategies. From impactful advertising campaigns to robust workplace policies and support systems, businesses can drive meaningful societal change while staying true to their organisational values.

Collaborations like those facilitated by Brands on a Mission showcase how thoughtful branding can challenge harmful stereotypes and reshape community norms. These initiatives highlight an essential truth: when civil society and the private sector come together with a shared vision, the potential for transformative impact grows exponentially.

Together, We Can End GBV

Even though this year’s 16 Days of Activism has reached an end, we continue to invite businesses, civil society organisations, and individuals to join us in meaningful conversations and action to end GBV. Progress starts with dialogue but thrives on sustained collaboration.

Let’s work together to create a South Africa where everyone can live free from violence and fear. With cross-sector commitment, we can build a future of equity, safety, and dignity for all.