The effects of gender-based violence amongst youth at Manini village in the Vembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Gender-based violence remains a significant problem that affects individuals, families, and communities globally. The scourge remains a  human rights violation which has a major social and developmental impact on its survivors. The focus of this paper is to investigate the  causes, consequences, and possible interventions of Gender Based Violence amongst youth in Manini village, who are bearing the brunt  of the pandemic of gender-based violence. This village is situated in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province in South Africa. The paper  draws on theories of feminism to understand the root causes of this scourge which, in most cases, is perpetuated by men, on women.  This study adopted a qualitative research methodology for the collection and analysis of the data. Triangulation of the research methods was also employed to get a more holistic perspective on the research questions that probed the causal factor of gender-based violence.  Triangulation was also helpful for enhancing the credibility and validity of the results emanating from the interviews that were conducted  with the participants. A survey was conducted amongst youth in Manini village to gather quantitative data on the prevalence and types of Gender-Based Violence experienced by youth. Additionally, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted  with key stakeholders to explore the causes, consequences, and possible interventions of Gender-Based Violence among  youth in Manini village. The findings and recommendations of the study are that there must be awareness campaigns that target youth,  parents, and community members to promote non-violence and gender equality amongst the youth. Victims of gender-based violence  are also encouraged to take part in programmes that focus on building their self-esteem, resilience, and assertiveness skills so that they  can function well in their respective communities.