Secunda: Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has launched the Provincial Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, aimed at improving access to essential services for victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
According to South African Government News Agency, the launch, which took place on Wednesday in Secunda, marks a significant step in the province’s commitment to addressing the persistent issues of inequality and GBVF that affect local communities. The newly established council will prioritize enhancing access to crucial services for GBVF victims, which include shelters, counselling, legal support, and healthcare.
The council is expected to formulate an action plan for the execution of the Provincial Strategic Plan on GBVF (PSP-GBVF), which was recently sanctioned by Members of the Executive Council (EXCO). Premier Ndlovu emphasized that the initiative reinforces the provincial government’s dedication to combating the GBVF crisis, particularly in light of the rising GBVF cases in the region.
Ndlovu highlighted the alarming increase in sexual offence cases, which rose from 641 in March 2022 to 746 in March 2023, underscoring the immediate need for the council. “Through the provincial structure, we are bringing together government, civil society, and the private sector to create a collective response to GBVF. The structure will effectively coordinate all GBVF intervention programmes, in our quest to eliminate the pandemic,” he stated.
The Premier also expressed solidarity with survivors, pledging commitment to rebuilding their lives and ensuring strict accountability for perpetrators. “Justice will be served, and no offender will go unpunished. This initiative is a testament to our unwavering resolve to create a safer, more equitable society for all,” Ndlovu added.
The council will comprise government representatives, with the Premier as a co-Chairperson, alongside members from the private sector, civil society, and traditional leadership. A pledge was signed at the conclusion of the event, signifying the commitment of all stakeholders to combat GBVF collaboratively.
This launch is aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recognition of GBVF as a national crisis and a pressing issue requiring urgent attention.