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This is a exploratory qualitative study on the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act No 116 of 1998 in South Africa. This is a case study of two townships in the Nkonkobe Municipality District, Eastern Cape Province. In-depth interviews were conducted on a sample of ten women in abusive relationships and a focus group interview on five service providers for a triangulation. Literature reviewed focused on gender based radical feminist views, legislations, conventions from a human rights perspective and the roles of service providers were investigated. Findings suggest that African women experience abuse in partner relationships. They sustain physical, psychological, emotional and financial abuse. A patriarchy system and traditional practices are cited as some of the reasons. Social networks and service providers assist these women to some extent. However, there is need for ethnic sensitive interdisciplinary training approach on African communities on the Act and a legal system that is accessible to rural women to curb abuse.
About the author
Dr. N.J. Mesatywa, holds a BA (SW) & BA (Social work Honours) degrees from University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa; Master of Social Science (SW) from Rhodes University; Masters in Human Rights, University of Fort Hare, and has successfully completed a PhD (SW) University of Stellenbosch, South Africa.
