Have you experienced violence?
Help for survivors of gender-based violence.
Gender-based violence can include sexual, physical, mental and economic harm inflicted in public or in private. It also includes threats of violence, coercion and manipulation. This can take many forms, such as intimate partner violence, sexual violence, child marriage, female genital mutilation and so-called ‘honour crimes’.
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious human rights violation and a major public health issue that happens in all contexts. People with specific needs situations, such as displacement and lacking appropriate documentation, are disproportionately affected and are at heightened risk, irrespective of their age, gender or other diversity considerations.
What should I do if I face violence?
If you or someone you know is facing or has experienced violence, do not hesitate to reach out to these reliable, confidential and FREE OF CHARGE services and reporting mechanisms:
- If you need Medical attention & Psychosocial support: You can contact or go to local health facilities and Skillshare International Botswana.
- For effective medical treatment, you should ideally seek medical attention within 72hrs of the incident but do not hesitate to seek support even after that time has passed.
- If you need Legal assistance or want to access livelihood activities: contact Skillshare International Botswana.
- If you have Security concerns:
- In a security emergency, if you need information or want to register a criminal complaint, or you are afraid for your safety, please go to the closest police station. There is a GBV unit within the local police station, and you can request a policewoman if necessary.
- You can also contact the below for emergency GBV services:
In Gaborone, Palapye, Northeast/Tutume and Chobe Kweneng East:
Botswana GBV Prevention and Support Centre
- Phone: 00267 3907659
- Cell phone: +267 74 265 081
- Facebook: Botswana Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Support Centre
Services offered:
- Counselling, care and support (GBV_HIV)
- Temporary and Emergency Shelter-protection and legal support
- Community Outreach and Education- community capacity building
- Clinical Services such as:
- Emergency Contraceptives
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
- HIV Testing and Counselling
- Sexual Transmitted Infection Screening and treatment
- Family Planning Services
- Psychosocial support and counselling
In Maun and surrounding areas:
- Address: Maun Botswana
- Tollfree number: 0800 600 387
- 24 hr line: 71311244
- Landline: 6860865
Services offered:
- Emergency shelter for survivors of GBV (women and children)
- Psychosocial support and counselling
- Legal assistance