Government Allocates R1.6 Billion to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

Cape town: Government has set aside R1.6 billion for activities related to the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, with an additional R50 million allocated to provincial baselines. This allocation demonstrates that GBVF remains a whole-of-government priority within the policing budget. According to South African Government News Agency, Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia, while presenting the 2026/27 South African Police Service (SAPS) Budget Vote in Parliament on Tuesday, emphasized that policing alone could not solve South Africa's crime crisis. He stressed the importance of coordinated action across government and communities, stating that crime is driven by deep social and economic challenges that require a whole-of-government and whole-of-society response. Cachalia highlighted that the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy remains central to the government's approach. He emphasized the need for stronger families, safer schools, youth development, substance abuse preventio n, better urban planning, stronger community partnerships, and intergovernmental cooperation to prevent crime effectively. Reaffirming the government's commitment to tackling Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, Cachalia noted that Deputy Minister Polly Boshielo is leading initiatives aimed at improving the response to GBV. Additionally, the Minister announced the implementation of a structured national community patroller programme. This programme aims to improve visibility and strengthen community-based crime prevention in high-crime areas, under SAPS coordination with appropriate vetting, training, and oversight mechanisms. Cachalia also commended the role already played by community structures across the country in supporting law enforcement and strengthening social cohesion. Community Policing Forums (CPF), neighbourhood structures, faith-based organisations, and community volunteers continue to contribute significantly to strengthening safety and social cohesion nationwide.