Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to any harmful act that is perpetrated against an individual’s will and is based on gender differences between males and females. This type of violence is rooted in unequal power relationships between men and women and is a manifestation of gender inequality.
At Mustadafin Foundation – as always – we turn to the Quran and Sunnah for answers. One of the last instructions of the Prophet (SAW) was that women should be treated kindly. ‘O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under a trust from Allah and with His permission.’ Islam does not condone or promote violence against women or children, and therefore it is sad to see how rife it is in our communities.
There are various forms of violence, namely:
Physical Violence: Any form of physical harm or force, such as hitting, slapping, or sexual assault.
Sexual Violence: Any non-consensual sexual act or behaviour, including rape, harassment, and coercion.
Emotional/Psychological Violence: Acts that undermine an individual’s mental health, self-worth, or emotional well-being, often through manipulation, intimidation, or control.
Economic Violence: Controlling someone’s financial resources or restricting their economic independence.
While gender-based violence can affect anyone, the majority of cases involve women and girls as victims, and men as perpetrators. However, it’s essential to recognize that men can also be victims of gender-based violence.
Mustadafin Director, Ghairunisa Johnstone Cassiem says she is well aware that women in abusive relationships are afraid to speak up. She says: “Women stay silent and remain in abusive relationships for fear of being judged, embarrassed or believing that they somehow deserve it.
People who destroy another person’s self-worth and inflict injury to the body and soul must be exposed. We are all responsible for each other; men, women and religious leaders must rally to the defence of our abused no matter who the abuser is.”
The intention as Mustadafin Foundation is always to create awareness around Gender Based Violence, and to let women know that they are not alone. There is light at the end of the tunnel – and together we will reach it.
If you would like to get involved in any of our Women Empowerment projects, please feel free to contact us on:
021 633 0010
or via our WhatsApp line: 071 282 796
Banking details
Mustadafin Foundation
Branch Code: 025909
Sadaqah Acc: 072 778 377
Zakaah Acc: 073 159 867
“If every man helps his neighbour, then who will need help?”
