Public Works Buildings Repurposed as Shelters for Gender-Based Violence Victims

Mpumalanga: In a significant move to combat gender-based violence (GBV), Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has transferred 10 properties to be repurposed as shelters for victims. These properties, previously vacant, are set to be renovated by the Mpumalanga provincial department, marking a pivotal step in utilizing public assets for societal benefit. According to South African Government News Agency, the properties are strategically located with five in Badplaas, four in Lothair, and one in Delmas. This handover aligns with the department's mission to ensure public properties are utilized effectively, particularly to address the pressing issue of GBV in South Africa. The handover ceremony, attended by Mpumalanga MEC for Social Development Brenda Moeketsi and Mpumalanga MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport Thulasizwe Thomo, underscores the collaborative efforts between various governmental departments. This initiative follows a similar transfer last month when five properties in W aterkloof, Pretoria, were handed over to the Gauteng Social Development MEC, Faith Mazibuko. Minister Macpherson reiterated his commitment to ensuring that public buildings are utilized for the public good, specifically to help address GBV. He highlighted the department's role in safeguarding vulnerable members of society by providing necessary facilities, with 15 properties already repurposed for this cause. Minister Macpherson also emphasized ongoing collaboration with Social Development Minister Nokuzola Tolashe and other stakeholders, with the aim of ensuring every district in South Africa has access to a fully functional GBV shelter. Currently, 47 of the 52 districts have such facilities, and efforts are underway to establish shelters in the remaining districts promptly.