SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT UNITES WITH COMMUNITIES TO FIGHT GBV

By Lawrence Mashabela

• South Africa is facing a severe epidemic of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), prompting the government to contribute more in efforts to combat this critical issue.
• The Gauteng Department of Social Development has collaborated with Faith-Based Organisations and civil society groups to raise awareness about GBV within communities.
• A recent campaign included a march to the Tsakane Police Station, where a memorandum was presented, outlining urgent calls for better handling of GBV cases and support for victims.

South Africa is working through an alarming epidemic of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), which continues to escalate. The government is doing more in its efforts to combat this serious crime within communities. Gender-based violence is a violation of human rights that deeply impacts survivors, their families, and society as a whole, with women and children bearing the outcome of the violence. In the face of this ongoing crisis, the struggle to end GBV must remain a top priority.

As part of a collaborative response, the Gauteng Department of Social Development joined forces with Faith-Based Organisations and various civil society groups on Saturday to heighten awareness about GBV within communities. The campaign began with a march to the Tsakane Police Station, where a memorandum calling for an end to violence against women and children was handed over.

The memorandum outlined ten key pleas, including prioritising GBV cases and treating them with the urgency they deserve. It emphasised that victims must be treated with dignity and confidentiality and receive support in a victim-friendly space. Additionally, it called for medical examinations to gather evidence and for investigations to be handled by officers with relevant expertise. It also stressed the importance of keeping victims and their families informed about the progress of their cases.

At the police station, Sergeant Floyd Malaza encouraged the community not to lose faith in law enforcement. He urged them to remain vigilant and to report GBV cases. “We are here for you 24 hours a day. Don’t get tired of reporting GBV cases. Some may have lost hope in the police, but I assure you, our officers are committed to working with the community. If you know of any wrongdoing by a police officer, report it, and we will act,” Malaza said.

Nompumelelo Speelman, a social worker from the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Eastern Corridor, addressed the crowd at Faranani Multi-Purpose Hall, explaining that the march was intended to raise awareness in Tsakane and surrounding areas. She reminded the community that GBV perpetrators often live among us and should be reported to the police. 

She further highlighted that GBV is not only directed at women and girls but can also affect men and boys. “We encourage men to speak out and report GBV incidents. We know there is a culture of silence among men, but we urge them to come forward,” Speelman added.