Exploring Perceptions and Resources for Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Rural Botswana

Gender-based violence (GBV) disproportionately affects women and girls globally. In Botswana, GBV prevalence is higher than global averages. Community perspectives on GBV and resources for survivors in rural Botswana were examined to develop a deeper understanding of cultural and contextual factors influencing GBV and the utilization of existing resources through thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (<i>n</i> = 29) were used with maximum variation and snowball sampling to recruit diverse participants with relevant GBV experience. The findings highlight the need for culturally responsive services that extend beyond survivors to families, as well as more resources to prevent instances of GBV in rural communities.