Cape Town, South Africa — Dumiso Gatsha, a passionate activist and member of the Spotlight Initiative’s Global Civil Society Reference Group, is dedicated to bridging the gap between grassroots experiences and global policy-making. As the founder of the Success Capital Organization in Botswana, Gatsha’s work focuses on sustainable development and human rights for LGBTQI youth.
In an era marked by deep geopolitical divisions and structural violence, Gatsha emphasizes the urgency of addressing violence against women and girls in all their diversity. “Ending violence against women and girls is not just a matter of development; it’s about ensuring that the human rights of all individuals are protected and affirmed,” they state.
Gatsha confronts significant challenges in their advocacy. They note that many individuals grow up in environments where violence is normalized, from home settings to educational institutions. “It’s essential to recognize that when someone seeks help, we need to treat them as a whole person. It’s not about seeing a victim but a survivor,” Gatsha explains. They highlight the need for established protocols to guide survivors through the healing process, which can be hindered by systemic violence, stigma, and discrimination.
At the policy level, Gatsha advocates for the full operationalization of Resolution 275 from the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. This resolution provides a crucial policy framework for protecting individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. “We must institutionalize and socialize these policies to ensure that they reach those who need them most,” they assert, noting that legislative advancements often leave marginalized groups behind.
Gatsha points out that many harmful gender norms are deeply ingrained in society and must be addressed across various contexts, including workplaces and social media. “To combat gender-based violence and affirm the experiences of marginalized individuals, we must tackle these norms in all aspects of life,” they urge.
Through their work, Gatsha strives to create an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, feels safe and supported in their pursuit of justice and healing. Their commitment reflects a broader movement to dismantle barriers and foster inclusivity across Africa.
