Through working in urban and rural areas across Southern Africa and using a human rights framework to build the capacity of government, civil society organizations and citizens to achieve gender equality, prevent gender based violence and reduce the spread of HIV and the impact of AIDS, Sonke Gender Justice Network (Sonke) endeavours to create the change necessary for men, women, youth and children to enjoy equitable, healthy, and happy relationships that contribute to the development of just and democratic societies. Sonke is committed to challenging the gender roles and inequalities that contribute to the rapid spread of HIV and exacerbate the impact of AIDS. Sonke recognises the importance of sustaining an engaged and empowered citizen activism that can both support and hold government accountable.

The name “Sonke”, an Nguni word meaning “all of us” or “together”, symbolises the organization’s commitment to working in partnership with all those committed to our vision of gender equality, human rights and social justice.