Ekurhuleni: The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has expressed support for President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent declaration that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) is a national crisis.
According to South African Government News Agency, DWYPD Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga emphasized that this declaration is a crucial step in bolstering South Africa's collective response to a pressing human rights issue impacting women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. President Ramaphosa made this announcement during his keynote address at the G20 Social Summit's closing ceremony held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni.
The President called on governments, communities, and social partners to enhance their efforts in combating GBVF, empowering women and youth, and reinforcing the nation's health, education, and social systems. He highlighted the detrimental effects of gender-based violence and femicide on the social fabric and development of societies, urging for extraordinary and coordinated action.
Chikunga reiterated the DWYPD's role in providing strategic leadership and advocacy to promote the socio-economic empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. She pointed out that the declaration signifies the government's dedication to fast-tracking the National Strategic Plan on GBVF, which includes key pillars such as accountability, prevention, justice, response, economic empowerment, and research.
Recognizing GBVF as a human rights violation, Chikunga stated that the national crisis declaration prioritizes GBVF as an urgent issue requiring concerted efforts across government, civil society, and private sectors. She called for a united front where communities and institutions actively challenge harmful norms and support survivors.
In anticipation of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the department plans to launch a campaign under the theme 'LETSEMA.' This initiative seeks to engage men, women, youth, and media to collaboratively work towards ending gender violence and femicide through responsible storytelling and inclusive media representation.