31 Jul 2018 | 06:33 AM UTC
Botswana: March against gender-based violence in Gaborone August 1
Civil society groups to march against gender-based violence in Gaborone August 1; localized traffic disruptions anticipated
Event
A march against gender-based violence is scheduled to be held in the capital of Gaborone on Wednesday, August 1. The rally, organized by the #TheTotalShutdown movement, will start at the Three Dikgosi Monument at 08:00 (local time). Participants will then march to the National Assembly building. The march is intended to bring attention to gender-based violence at the beginning of Women's Month. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any gatherings. Additional information on protest routes in each city can be found on the march organizers' website.
Context
Additional marches are scheduled to be held in cities across South Africa and in Lesotho and Namibia. Organizers have called on women to wear black and red, and for those who cannot participate in the rallies to stand in silence from 13:00-13:30 on August 1.
Advice
ndividuals in Gaborone are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.