Let’s work together to end Gender-Based Violence. Violence against women and girls affects one in three women globally. In SA , a study conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) in 2024, showed that a third (33.1%) of South African women over the age of 18 had experienced physical violence in their lifetime. For over 25 years, SCOUTS South Africa has been a beacon of inclusion, welcoming all genders and promoting equality and unity throughout our SA Scout Movement. We believe in fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding where children, youth, and adult volunteers are united by a set of values that enable equality, respect, and honour.
This year the theme of the ’16 days of Activism Campaign’ in South Africa is “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)”. As a Scout Movement, this is a call to action that comes naturally to us as a youth Movement. Today, nearly 47% of our members are girls and young women. Together, they lead, learn, and grow through shared experiences and Scouting adventures. By challenging gender norms and creating safe spaces for meaningful discussions, we work to build positive role models and nurture the skills of our members to they can become the best versions of themselves. At SCOUTS South Africa, we celebrate equality, teamwork, and the power of a diverse community.
Stand together #16daysofactivism
As a youth movement for change, SCOUTS South Africa calls on all members to unite in the fight against gender-based violence by participating in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Starting today, till 10 December (Human Right’s Day), lets show the world that the Scouting generation stands strong against gender-based violence:
- Flood your social media, WhatsApp groups, and communities with orange—the color of hope, action, and a brighter future.
- Wear anything orange: clothing, scarves, shoes, accessories—whatever you have to make your voice heard.
- Scouters are encouraged to include references to GBV in the opening and closing ceremonies of their meetings.
- Chat to your Scout members, team and friends on how the Scout values can mitigate GBV and inspire inclusion and peace. Discuss how your actions as Scouting members can inspire hope and better choices.
Share your photos and stories with some of these hashtags: #scoutssa #sascoutsstandagainstGBV #16Days #Scouts4SDGs and Tag @SAScout or @scoutssa . You can also WhatsApp 068 0699 463 your photos or share them on our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1093057501726460!