MEC BUKIWE FANTA LEADS LAUNCH OF 365 DAYS INTEGRATED PROGRAMME AND ORANGE DAY CAMPAIGN TO COMBAT GBV

By Nande Fayo.

• The programme provides entrepreneurship, vocational, and life-skills training to 70 GBV survivors, with a focus on long-term economic independence.
• ⁠By dedicating 365 days to the initiative, MEC Fanta and partners highlight an unwavering stance against violence and the importance of continuous support for survivors.
• ⁠Strong collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector – including donations of equipment – ensures survivors are equipped with tools to rebuild their lives.

Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape – In a decisive step towards combating gender-based violence (GBV) and empowering survivors, the Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, officially launched the 365 Days integrated programme and the Orange Day Campaign in partnership with Nyamukara Empowerment NPC and the Godishanang Empowerment Programme. The launch, held in Nelson Mandela Bay, seeks to provide skills development training to approximately 70 survivors of GBV.

Nyamukara Empowerment, a 100% black women-owned, impact-driven South African organisation, specialises in the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Its collaboration with the Department of Social Development brings expertise, resources, and sustainability to the initiative. Through this partnership, survivors will gain access to training in entrepreneurship, vocational disciplines, and life skills, while the programme also addresses the root causes of GBV through awareness-raising and community engagement.

During her address, MEC Fanta emphasized the importance of sustained support for GBV survivors. “This initiative is not only about skills development, it is about empowering individuals to reclaim their dignity and fostering resilience within our communities. This programme is designed to provide survivors with essential skills that enhance their employability and advance economic independence, thereby breaking the cycle of violence By dedicating 365 days to this cause, we reaffirm our collective commitment to eliminating violence in all its forms,” she stated.

The launch brought together survivors, stakeholders, and community leaders who shared powerful testimonies about the impact of GBV The stories highlighted the urgent need for programs that provide support and empowerment for those affected. Survivor and programme participant, Nomathamsanqa Ntenteni expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, emphasising that stigma, shame, and isolated looms around affected persons and communities. “Seeking support is important for the healing and recovery. When you seek support, you empower yourself to pursue your goals and attain your potential,” she said .

As the program kicks off, survivors will be equipped with practical tools such as financial literacy, vocational training and personal development workshops tailored to meet their specific needs.. “Our goal is to empower survivors not only to survive but to thrive,” MEC Fanta emphasized. Stakeholder contributions, including Old Mutual’s donation of sewing machines and laptops, further reinforce the initiative’s sustainability.

The launch of the 365 Days Integrated Programme and Orange Day Campaign represents a united effort to provide holistic support, create safer communities, and promote long-term empowerment for survivors of GBV in the Eastern Cape.