African Union Convention Offers Hope in Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Johannesburg – The pervasive issue of violence against women and girls across Africa may see a significant shift with the development and implementation of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG). This landmark instrument, a unified and legally binding framework, aims to prevent, address, and ultimately eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) in all its forms across the continent.

A Continent Grappling with High Rates of Violence

The need for such a convention is underscored by the stark reality that gender-based violence remains a widespread and deeply entrenched problem in many African communities. Statistics reveal that approximately one in three women in Africa experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, a rate that demands urgent and comprehensive action. This violence manifests in various forms, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, harmful traditional practices, and conflict-related violence.

The AU's EVAWG convention represents a critical step towards addressing this crisis. It provides a continent-wide framework for member states to harmonize their laws and policies, strengthen prevention efforts, improve access to justice for survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Tanzania Voices Support for Unified Action

"This platform offers a unique opportunity to celebrate efforts to end violence against women and girls across Africa," stated Felista P. Ndemu, Tanzania’s Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups. "In the fight to eliminate gender-based violence, we face multiple challenges that hinder women and girls' full participation in leadership, decision-making, and the protection of their rights and those of their communities."

Building on Existing Frameworks and Addressing Gaps

The EVAWG convention builds upon existing regional and international frameworks, such as the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol) and the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). However, it goes further by providing more specific and comprehensive guidance on addressing GBV in the African context.

Challenges Remain in Implementation

Dr. Fatima Hassan, a gender studies expert at the University of Cape Town, notes that while the EVAWG convention is a significant achievement, its effectiveness will depend on its successful implementation by member states. "The challenge lies not just in ratifying the convention, but in translating its provisions into concrete actions at the national level," she explains. "This requires political will, adequate resources, and a coordinated approach involving governments, civil society organizations, and communities."

Harmonization of Laws: Many African countries still have laws that discriminate against women or fail to adequately protect them from violence. Limited Resources: Insufficient funding and resources hinder the implementation of prevention programs, support services for survivors, and law enforcement efforts. Cultural Norms: Deep-rooted cultural norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality and condone violence against women remain a significant obstacle.

The Role of Civil Society

Civil society organizations play a crucial role in advocating for the implementation of the EVAWG convention and monitoring progress. These organizations provide essential services to survivors of GBV, raise awareness about the issue, and work to change harmful social norms.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Action

The African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls offers a renewed sense of hope in the fight against gender-based violence in Africa. However, its success will depend on the commitment of member states to translate its provisions into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls across the continent. This requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of GBV, strengthens legal frameworks, provides adequate resources, and empowers women and girls to claim their rights.

According to Ms. Aisha Traoré, a program officer at a women's rights advocacy group in Dakar, Senegal, "The EVAWG convention is a powerful tool, but it is just a tool. It is up to us, as governments, civil society organizations, and individuals, to use it effectively to create a future where all women and girls in Africa can live free from violence and discrimination."