Pretoria: Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Programme of Action to address Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), including a service delivery framework and institutional arrangements to drive a whole of society approach in addressing this scourge. At a post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni outlined the five priority areas of the initiative.
According to South African Government News Agency, the comprehensive Programme of Action focuses on prevention and rebuilding social cohesion, aiming to eliminate the social acceptance of violence and address structural drivers. There will be a concerted effort to engage men and boys in prevention dialogues to dismantle harmful norms and toxic masculinity.
The second priority is enhanced law enforcement protection, safety, and justice, which aims to strengthen the criminal justice system to ensure protection and justice for survivors. This includes expanded victim-friendly facilities and specialised GBV desks at SAPS stations to support affected individuals effectively.
Thirdly, the plan emphasizes victim and survivor-centred support, seeking to provide equitable access to high-quality services across justice, health, and education sectors. The initiative prioritizes dignity, healing, and empowerment, ensuring survivors receive comprehensive care without discrimination or delay.
Communication and stakeholder engagement and mobilisation form the fourth priority, focusing on transforming social norms at all levels through consistent, evidence-based messaging. This aims to challenge harmful attitudes, promote gender equality, and mobilise communities to actively participate in ending GBVF.
The final priority involves institutional arrangements to ensure strong governance and accountability mechanisms across all spheres of society. It calls for firm, coordinated leadership and clear institutional roles to drive implementation, monitor progress, and enforce accountability.
Victims of violence are encouraged to use the 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre hotline: 0800 428 428 to report abuse and access support services, as highlighted by the Minister.
Meanwhile, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga recently emphasized the need for bold leadership and stronger partnerships across various levels of government, civil society, and the private sector. She urged a year-round, 365-day commitment to prevent violence, protect vulnerable groups, and build a society grounded in equality, dignity, and safety, extending beyond the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign.