National disaster status to boost GBVF survivor support, says Social Development

The Department of Social Development (DSD) has confirmed that the government's classification of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster will significantly expand support for GBVF survivors.

As the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children draws to a close on Wednesday, the Department on Tuesday clarified what the classification entails.

This clarification follows the cautious welcome extended by Sonke Gender Justice after President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement at the closing of the G20 Social Summit in Johannesburg last month.

Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director for Sonke Gender Justice, stated that while the organisation cautiously welcomes President Ramaphosa's classification of GBVF as a national disaster, there is a critical need for action.

"We still need to ensure that the regulations that will be developed and gazetted will go far enough in ensuring that they make the necessary difference in turning the tide against GBVF."

According to Sandy Godwana, Acting Spokesperson for the Departmentof Social Development, the declaration will have tangible benefits for survivors.

"The classification enables the Department to expand survivor support through shelters, safe spaces, counselling services, and community-based prevention programmes."

Godwana further explained that the National Disaster classification is also expected to improve coordination between the Justice, Health, and Education sectors, ensuring that survivors receive more effective and integrated assistance.