Gender-based violence (GBV) casts a long shadow over society. It is a human rights violation with farreaching consequences, transcending gender lines and socioeconomic boundaries. It is also a global epidemic that is particularly rampant in South Africa, where rural areas bear a disproportionate burden.
While typically associated with interpersonal relationships, the reach of GBV extends far beyond homes and workplaces, penetrating deeply into industries like agriculture. Its economic toll is staggering, with losses in productivity and GDP equivalent to significant national expenditures.
In a 2014 report titled 'Too costly to ignore - the economic impact of gender-based violence in South Africa', professional services firm KPMG delved into how GBV affects South Africa in other economic and developmental ways.
"Based on prevalence rates of between 20% and 30% of women experiencing gender-based violence within a given year, this study estimates that the economic impact of that violence is between at least R28,4 billion and R42,4 billion for the year 2012/13, representing 0,9% and 1,3% of GDP, respectively," the report says.
SYSTEMIC INEQUALITIES
It is no coincidence that there is a correlation between GBV and agriculture; it stems from systemic inequalities, posing grave threats to productivity, sustainability and overall well-being within the sector. Women farmers and farmworkers in Africa face a multitude of challenges, with violence being among the most severe. Beyond the immediate physical and mental toll that GBV takes on these women, it also hampers their ability to work and provide for their families, perpetuating cycles of poverty and suffering.
EFFECTS ON PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.