Welcome Witboi speaks with women and families in his nearby community about growing “gangsterism” and violence against women. While South Africa has the largest economy on the African continent, many still live in poverty and the gap between rich and poor drives increasing violence.

“Being part of a gang would give me status. You have enough to eat, you have clothes. Being part of these guys gives you that identity, I’m recognised, I’m protected.”

Background

Welcome transformed his life to become a women’s rights champion after taking part in a UK aid supported prisons project with Sonke Gender Justice. Their One Man Can campaign tackles HIV and gender-based violence.

In March 2013 the United Nation's Commission on the Status of Women will meet to discuss how to prevent all forms of violence against women and girls.

This International Women's Day, help demand action by sending a message to global leaders that it's time to put a stop to this worldwide injustice.

UK aid is working in 21 countries to address physical and sexual violence against women and girls and will be supporting 10 million women and girls with improved access to security and justice services by 2015.

Find out more at www.dfid.gov.uk/violence-against-women-and-girls

For more information about the Sonke Gender Justice programme visit genderjustice.org.za/

Picture: Lindsay Mgbor/Department for International Development

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