Not On Our Watch – Letsema, Let’s End it Together!
Every year, South Africa pauses for the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. But this year’s theme, Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end GBVF, is a reminder that this campaign isn’t just a government message or a social media moment. It’s a call for everyday people to make everyday choices that protect the vulnerable.
At Ringpharm, we see the real impact of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the faces of the mothers, grandmothers, teenagers and even young boys who walk through our doors. That is why we believe the most powerful movement starts with simple, practical actions in our own homes and neighbourhoods.
The truth is, ending GBV doesn’t start with big speeches. It starts with conversations, boundaries, respect and accountability. It starts with saying, “Not on my watch.” When something is wrong, when someone is unsafe, when a person is being harmed or intimidated — we do not look away. We step in, we speak up, we support, and we protect. That is the spirit of Letsema, and that is how we build safer families and safer communities.
Challenge GBV firmly
One of the biggest reasons GBV continues is because families and communities stay silent. “It’s a private matter,” “They’ll sort it out,” or “I don’t want to interfere” are phrases that have protected abusers for generations. Real activism means refusing to accept that silence.
If you hear shouting or crying next door late at night, don’t dismiss it – check in or call for help. If a friend confides in you about being hit, help them take a stand. If a colleague makes harmful jokes, challenge it. These small moments matter. They may feel uncomfortable, but they can save a life. This is how ordinary people say: “Not on my watch.”
Help without making things worse
Supporting someone facing difficulties requires sensitivity. Many people feel embarrassed or afraid to speak. A calm approach works best. If someone confides in you that they are struggling at home, listen first before giving advice.
Offer practical help such as information about helplines, talking to a trusted elder or finding a safe place to stay temporarily if needed. Even accompanying them to a clinic or police station can make a difficult situation easier.
Seek help for your own behaviour
GBV doesn’t only involve physical violence; it includes emotional manipulation, intimidation, control, verbal abuse and coercive behaviour. For many people, harmful patterns come from stress, substance abuse, childhood wounds or unresolved trauma. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness – it is a sign of responsibility.
If you find yourself turning to alcohol when stressed, snapping at loved ones or losing control of your emotions, taking action early can prevent harm later. Speaking to a counsellor, joining a support group or even talking to a pharmacist about managing stress, anxiety or substance dependence is a courageous step. Changing your own behaviour is one of the most meaningful contributions to ending GBV.
Teach kids respect and boundaries
Children today face new dangers that older generations didn’t experience. Harmful content, online bullying and inappropriate contact happen quietly on phones and tablets. A child who is exposed to violent or explicit content becomes fearful, confused or overly mature too quickly.
Parents can help by setting screen limits, checking that games and apps are age-appropriate, and teaching children that they can talk about anything without punishment. A simple conversation like, “If anyone makes you uncomfortable online, you can tell me – you are not in trouble,” builds trust and protection.
The 16 Days of Activism is not about blame. It is about awareness, prevention and shared responsibility. When families communicate better, when communities look out for one another, and when individuals take responsibility for their behaviour, we create safer spaces for everyone – men, women and children.
Letsema means working together, and that is exactly what South Africa needs. Each small action you take – a conversation, a check-in, a moment of support – helps build the kind of society we want our children to inherit.
At Ringpharm, we care for families far beyond medicine. We see people at their most vulnerable, and we understand that health includes emotional safety, mental well-being and social support. If you ever need guidance, a safe conversation or help finding the right service, our team is here for you.
Not on our watch.