16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), that takes place from the 25th of November to the 10th of December each year, is a global campaign to raise awareness and mobilise action to end violence against women and girls. At mothers2mothers (m2m), we use this time to amplify our commitment to breaking down harmful gender norms and strengthening community health systems to protect and uplift women and girls across sub-Saharan Africa.

GBV has devastating consequences on physical and mental health, often increasing vulnerability to HIV infection, maternal and infant health complications, and leading to other long-term health challenges. The women employed by m2m as community health workers, called Mentor Mothers, address these issues by providing health services, psychosocial, support, and education to those at risk, helping them to take steps toward safety, recovery, and resilience.

Zimasa, who lives in a rural community near Cape Town, South Africa, was one such client who suffered GBV. She recalls how even though the community could hear her crying out for help in the middle of the night, no one bothered to come to her aid.

“I was in a long-term relationship with a partner who physically and emotionally abused me. I never expected him to treat me like that after so many years together. I couldn’t leave because I was financially dependent on him, and I lived in his house. Packing up and leaving was not an option,” she said.

Her journey to safety began when she met Amosa, an m2m Community Mentor Mother, during a mental wellness education session at her local clinic.

As Mentor Mothers from the community they serve, they understand the underlying factors that trigger incidents of GBV and act as vital links between survivors and specialised services, including counselling and legal support.

“When I met Zimasa, I could see the signs of abuse,” shared Amosa. “I encouraged her to go for a mental wellness assessment, which confirmed she was suffering from depression. I referred to a nurse who connected her to a psychologist for further treatment. I visit her house regularly to check on her progress.”

With Amosa’s support, Zimasa took a courageous step toward reclaiming her life. “Amosa’s friendly and non-judgmental approach gave me courage to report my partner to the police and obtain a protection order. He was detained for six months. The support I received helped me process the anger and pain. I’m now working hard on finding a job and building a life where I am independent and standing on my own,” Zimasa shared.

Zimasa’s story is a reminder that GBV is not just a personal crisis; it is a public health crisis that has ripple effects on families and communities.  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), GBV can cause serious short- and long-term physical, mental, sexual, and reproductive health problems. It can even lead to fatal outcomes. A UNICEF report found that intimate partner violence experienced by mothers can contribute to stunting in children under five. As a mother to a young child, Zimasa faced these risks.

m2m is proud to support victims of GBV like Ziamsa reclaim their voices and rebuild their lives and salute the brave women and men working to eradicate GBV across the communities we serve.