IKEMELE FOUNDATION

 IKEMELE FOUNDATION is an independent humanitarian NGO based in Pretoria, South Africa. It provides protection and counseling to victims of gender based violence. The organization works on providing victims of GBV with education, protection, information and legal assistance.

Misleading information about GBV is that its cause is, women are unruly and the only of GBV form that affect many is domestic violence but that's not the case. 

CAUSES OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE 

According to a research conducted by the Finnish embassy the root cause of GBV is because of the influence of culture, tradition and religion as culturally men are placed in powerful position in relation to women. Traditionally also for example there is virginity testing that is applicable only to women. There is individual factors that can contribute to GBV. Children raised in homes where they experience violence they most likely to victims or perpetrators to GBV.

Studies have found that economically independent women are less likely to be abused. That is why economic factors contribute to GBV. For example lack of independence among women is the key driver of GBV. Women being independent for some represents loss of power and authority. With regard to the type of GBV domestic violence is not the only one. 

There is femicide, emotional abuse and physical abuse. Femicide is when a male partner murder the female partner. Emotional abuse is when your partner abuse you verbally and belittle you. Physical abuse is when the partner raises the hand to you. 

Gender based violence needs immediate attention. We as people need treat each other as humans not according to our genders. Mental illness is real if you have any problems consult social workers and get counseling.