Women's Month: NGO Ilitha Labantu calls for urgent action to address GBVF
Ilitha Labantu said recent gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) statistics reveal a disturbing trend in South Africa.
Social service and educational organisation Ilitha Labantu. August is annually commemorated as Women's Month in SA. Picture: IlithaLabantu/Facebook.com
CAPE TOWN - Civil society organisation, Ilitha Labantu, is drawing urgent attention to the issue of violence against women in South Africa.
August is annually commemorated as Women's Month in SA.
While it traditionally serves as a time to celebrate women and their achievements, Ilitha Labantu said it is important that a focus is placed on the alarming state of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
Ilitha Labantu said recent statistics reveal a disturbing trend.
During the final three months of 2023, 285 children and 1,135 women were murdered. Additionally, 18,474 women and 2,281 children were violently assaulted and 12,211 rape cases were reported, with a significant number of victims being women and children.
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A social worker at the organisation, Nomcebo Mngemnge said these figures paint a grim picture of a nation in crisis.
"Women's Month 2024 coincides with 30 years of democracy in South Africa and the 68th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women's March. These milestones underscore the progress made in advancing women's rights, yet they also highlight the stark reality that much work remains to be done," Mngemnge said.
Mngemnge said despite having one of the world's most progressive constitutions, South Africa continues to experience pervasive violence against women and children.