No excuse for gender violence

The incidences of femicide in South Africa are five times the global average and one in five women are assaulted by their partner.

It is a problem that has a devastating impact on the lives of individuals and families in South Africa and in every country around the world.

A bold new movement, called #NoExcuse, launched over the weekend and will initially run during the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence.

#NoExcuse is a long-term, five-year initiative with the inaugural supporters being Carling Black Label and Takuwami Riime! – a consortium of non-governmental and civic organisations that focus on driving positive change amongst South African men.

The holistic approach is aimed at driving awareness, creating conversations and providing tools for people to take positive action as a means of driving a change.

#NoExcuse indicates there is no excuse for men to perpetrate any form of violence and no excuse for people to stand by and do nothing while others abuse.

Speaking at the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, vice president for marketing at SAB and AB InBev Africa, Andrea Quaye, said: “Our decision to be an inaugural supporter of the #NoExcuse movement was driven by Carling Black Label’s status as a beacon of masculinity.

“As the largest beer brand in the country, it is our responsibility to ensure alcohol is consumed responsibly and to use the power of our brand to challenge South African men and our consumers to take action.

“While many consumers of alcohol drink responsibly and in moderation, it is clear that some people who commit acts of violence have consumed, and often misused, alcohol.

“There are no excuses for not getting involved and we hope to get the nation behind us in tackling the issue of gender-based violence. Over time, we would encourage more corporates to join this movement.”

The approach is aligned with AB InBev’s Global Smart Drinking Goals aimed at fostering a culture of smart drinking among consumers and reducing the harmful use of alcohol.

The #NoExcuse movement was initially launched with a thought-provoking television commercial developed to bring awareness to the reality of gender-based violence and the effect it has on lives, families, and communities, followed up by on-the-ground activations.

Read: Adapt calls for no gender violence this festive season