GBV and Mental Health: A Study on Black African Women in Inanda

Ms Lethiwe Masinga grew up in Jozini, a rural community in KwaZulu-Natal, where gender-based violence (GBV) is a prevalent issue. She has witnessed the first-hand impact it has had on families and communities. These experiences shaped her passion for psychology, gender studies and social justice.

These focal areas intersect in her master’s research topic titled, “The Impact of Gender-Based Violence on Black African Women’s Mental Health in South Africa: A Study in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal”.

‘I aimed to look at the psychological and social consequences of all forms of GBV on survivors, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse, and its effects on mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, I investigated coping mechanisms, support systems, and intervention strategies that assisted survivors in their healing process,’ advised Masinga.

Her findings indicated that most GBV survivors endure severe psychological distress, social marginalisation, and economic struggles. In addition, the study participants faced challenges in accessing mental health services due to stigma, financial barriers, and a lack of community support.

Highlighting her findings, Masinga said, ‘I found that there is an urgent need for improved mental health services, legal assistance, and increased public awareness campaigns. My hope is that by bringing these issues to light, it will contribute to policies and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing GBV and enhancing mental health support for GBV survivors.’

While GBV has been widely studied in South Africa, Masinga’s research stands out for linking GBV to the mental health of Black African women survivors in KwaZulu-Natal’s Inanda community.

Addressing the challenges of her research, Masinga said it was difficult to gain the trust of survivors. ‘Conducting interviews on such sensitive topics requires ethical sensitivity and a careful approach, but I managed to win them over. I want to express my gratitude to the participants for sharing their stories, and the ward councillor for granting me permission to conduct my research. Thank you for your trust and support in this important journey,’ she said.

She also noted the emotional toll she experienced while listening to survivors’ stories, which she managed through self-care techniques such as journaling, mindful eating and meditation.

‘Additionally, the lack of funding made conducting my research particularly difficult, but I sought guidance from God through prayer, my mentors, and talking to those who had walked this journey before me,’ Masinga said.

Despite these stresses, Masinga was supported by her supervisor, Dr Gabi Mkhize. ‘I cannot thank her enough. She pushed me, encouraged me, and, at times, even scolded me. She always believed in me – even when I didn’t. Today, I am a better writer because of her intellectual contributions. I will forever be indebted to her,’ she said.

She also acknowledged Professor Vivian Ojong, Dr Liberty Mambondiani and Dr Kemist Shumba for their expert guidance, mentorship, and encouragement.

Mkhize praised Masinga’s work, saying: ‘Lethiwe’s research is ground-breaking in terms of GBV and its impact on mental health. I encouraged her to align her interest in gender studies with her background in psychology to integrate and balance her career, while remaining multidisciplinary and focused on counselling psychology.

‘There is no limit to what she can achieve. I hope Ms Masinga continues to explore mental health issues and now develop practical solutions that can contribute to curbing the GBV pandemic – to help keep our society sane and progressive.’

Her network of family and friends was also critical to her success. ‘My mother, Mrs Dumisile Masinga, whose sacrifices and unwavering belief in my education and future mean the world to me. My aunt, Thabi Masinga-Mabika, Noxolo Manyoni and Isiah Gumede have also been consistent sources of encouragement, always believing in my potential. And lastly, my best friend, Sitheni Sibiya, who is always there for me, offering a shoulder to cry on and invaluable advice when I needed it most.

‘My late father would have been incredibly proud – I know that for sure! I cannot name everyone, but I am profoundly thankful to all who have walked this journey with me. Your support, encouragement and belief in me mean more than words can express. Every sacrifice you made contributed to this milestone, and I will forever cherish it. Thank you for making this postgraduate journey possible.’

‘My UKZN experience has been intellectually stimulating and transformative, providing invaluable academic resources and mentorship. The University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP) supported me through workshops that helped me write my dissertation and offered tutoring opportunities that boosted my growth and confidence,’ shared Masinga.

Masinga noted: ‘This experience taught me resilience and the importance of staying focused. Despite the challenges, I poured everything into my work, and it means so much to see my efforts come to fruition. Presenting my research at academic conferences and networking with experts in gender studies is powerfully rewarding. I love being part of a community of scholars committed to addressing GBV. This has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my academic journey.’

Moving forward, Masinga aspires to contribute to policy development, research, and advocacy initiatives aimed at combating GBV and improving mental health support for survivors.

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini