The Strategies to Mitigate Gender-Based Violence Amongst Married Women in the Rural Village of Thulamela Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Gender-based violence is an international epidemic, with South Africa leading the way in the presentation of its various manifestations. Every person, regardless of class, culture, colour, or literacy level, is impacted by gender-based violence (GBV), with women being the most vulnerable victims. It had long since infringed upon women's rights. The study aimed to explore the strategies to mitigate gender-based violence among married women in the rural village of Thulamela local municipality, located in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The population was particularly vulnerable due to the intersection of traditional cultural norms, limited access to resources, and socio-economic challenges that often exacerbated the prevalence of gender-based violence. By focusing on this specific group, the study sought to identify effective, context-sensitive interventions to protect and empower women in these communities. The study was exploratory and qualitative. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to sample 15 participants. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Ethical considerations were adhered to. The findings revealed that gender-based violence among married women in the rural village of Thulamela Local Municipality was prevalent and manifested in physical, emotional, psychological, and economic forms. Contributing factors included patriarchal cultural norms, unequal power relations, economic dependency, alcohol abuse, limited access to shelters, and slow legal processes. Existing mitigation strategies were found to be insufficient in effectively protecting women and preventing continued abuse. The study recommended strengthening support services by establishing accessible shelters and counselling services within rural communities. It was further recommended that legal processes related to gender-based violence cases be expedited, and that community-based awareness programmes involving traditional leaders, churches, and men be intensified to address harmful cultural norms and promote gender equality.