GAUTENG STRENGTHENS SUPPORT FOR GBV AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVORS

By Sipho Ncube

• A new seven-seater vehicle provided to Mercy House Shelter in the City of Tshwane will allow the centre to respond more efficiently to cases of gender-based violence and human trafficking.
• The vehicle, donated by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, is one of nine that will be provided to non-profit organisations in the province.
• The donation is about supporting the important work being done daily by shelters, which provide safety, care and support for those who have experienced trauma and abuse, Gauteng Social Development MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with the National Department of Social Development, has provided a seven-seater vehicle to one of the accredited shelters that supports victims of human trafficking and gender-based violence in Tshwane.

The vehicle is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and resource non-profit organisations (NPOs) that provide crucial services to women and children affected by violence, abuse and exploitation across the province.

Speaking during the handover, Gauteng Social Development MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said the support to Mercy House Shelter reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring shelters and NPOs are properly equipped to continue assisting survivors. “This handover is about supporting the important work being done daily by shelters,” the MEC said.

“These centres provide safety, care and support for people who have experienced trauma and abuse.

“As government, we remain committed to working with organisations that protect and restore the dignity of survivors,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

Human trafficking remains a serious crime and human rights violation that disproportionately affects women, children and vulnerable individuals. Victims are often subjected to abuse, exploitation and violence, while many are separated from their families and denied access to basic services.

In line with the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, the department plays an important role in identifying and supporting victims, including helping them to access shelters and care services.

During the 2025/26 financial year, the Gauteng Department of Social Development assessed 132 suspected victims of trafficking. Of these, 83 were formally recognised as victims in terms of the Act, while others were placed in accredited shelters for care and protection.

According to the MEC, these figures highlight the ongoing need for stronger support services and continued investment in shelters assisting survivors of trafficking and gender-based violence.

The provision of the vehicle also helps advance the objectives of the National Strategic Plan on gender-based violence and femicide, particularly efforts aimed at prevention, survivor support services and healing.

Over the years, Mercy House Shelter has provided accommodation, psychosocial support, healthcare referrals and reintegration services to women and children affected by abuse, violence and trafficking.

“The work done by shelters remains important in helping survivors rebuild their lives. Government will continue supporting organisations that provide protection and care to vulnerable individuals across Gauteng,” the department said.

National Prosecuting Authority Advocate Pule Mathaha said the vehicle would help the centre respond more efficiently to cases, especially as Gauteng continues to experience high levels of trafficking activity.

The vehicle handed over is one of nine vehicles that will be donated across all provinces to assist shelters in improving transport and support services for victims and survivors.