Ga-kgapane: Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mamoloko Kubayi has urged communities to utilize local avenues such as police stations and magistrates’ courts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) effectively. Speaking at Ga-Kgapane village during the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster’s Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Awareness Activation, Kubayi emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting and addressing GBV cases.

According to South African Government News Agency, Kubayi highlighted the government’s initiative to engage communities directly to understand their needs in fighting GBV. The Minister stressed the necessity for community members to report gender-based violence cases to their nearest police stations to ensure perpetrators are apprehended. Kubayi also pointed out a general lack of knowledge on handling rape cases and advocated for more Thuthuzela Care Centres, which are crucial in supporting victims and preparing cases for prosecution. These centers have been instrumental since their inception, with over 50 established since 2006.

Tsakane Maluleke from the South African Women Lawyers Association in Limpopo supported Kubayi’s call for community action, urging individuals not to ignore abuse occurring in their surroundings. Maluleke referenced the 1956 women’s march against pass laws, drawing parallels to the current fight against gender-based violence and stressing collective responsibility in protecting children.

Community members such as Tinyiko Rikhotso and Pretty Selamulela echoed the sentiment, expressing satisfaction with the Minister’s focus on GBV issues. They emphasized the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to prevent abuse. Rikhotso highlighted the lack of knowledge among women regarding available support, while Selamulela called for stringent law enforcement against abusers.

In related developments, President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to lead the National Women’s Day Commemoration, marking the 69th anniversary of the 1956 women’s march. The event, themed ‘Building Resilient Economies for All,’ will see the President and Cabinet Ministers addressing the nation, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to gender equality and empowerment.