Communities Urged to Speak Out Against GBVF and Child Abuse

The Urgency of Speaking Out Against GBVF and Child Abuse

Communities across South Africa are being urged to take a firm stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), as well as child abuse. This call to action is crucial in creating safer spaces for victims and those vulnerable to these heinous crimes. The South African government, in partnership with local organisations, continues to prioritise the battle against GBVF through various initiatives and public campaigns.

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This year, Deputy Minister of Police, Dr. Polly Boshielo, highlighted the importance of active community involvement in the fight against GBVF and child abuse. Speaking at the Walk Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide on 28 August 2025, Boshielo emphasised the significance of reporting perpetrators. She stressed the importance of ensuring that they are held accountable.

The Fight Against GBVF: A Call for Action

The Walk Against GBVF and Femicide, organised by the Mzansi Act Now initiative, began at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. It concluded at Maponya Mall in Soweto. The event drew attention to the ongoing fight against GBVF, which remains one of the most severe and pervasive social challenges facing South Africa today.

Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 22,219 individuals for GBVF-related crimes. These crimes included murder, attempted murder, assault, intimidation, and economic abuse, such as withholding victims’ earnings. The alarming number of cases highlights the urgent need for intervention and support for those affected by GBVF and child abuse.

Statistics on GBVF in South Africa

Dr. Boshielo shared important statistics from the SAPS report. This report revealed that the Western Cape had the highest number of GBVF-related arrests, with 4,727 cases. Gauteng followed closely with 4,278 arrests, while KwaZulu-Natal recorded 3,802 cases during the same period. These numbers reflect the gravity of GBVF in the country. They show the pressing need for continued action from both government and community members.

Dr. Boshielo reiterated that South Africa’s commitment to preventing, investigating, and combating GBVF is not limited to the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. The government’s strategy involves year-round efforts to combat these crimes through multi-pronged approaches and strategic partnerships.

MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko Calls for Action

In line with the Deputy Minister’s sentiments, MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, addressed participants of the Walk Against GBVF and urged everyone to actively confront GBVF and child abuse. Her message was clear:

“I want to urge you all to actively confront GBVF and child abuse. If you see something, say something. If you know someone who is suffering, reach out and offer your help.” – MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko

By speaking out, communities can support those affected and help bring perpetrators to justice. The MEC emphasised the importance of standing together as a community to create safe spaces for victims and to break the cycle of abuse.

Supporting Victims: The Role of Clinical Forensic Medical Services (CFMS)

In addition to community involvement, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) plays a critical role in supporting victims of GBVF and child abuse. The GDoH operates 27 Clinical Forensic Medical Services (CFMS) facilities across the province. These centres are staffed by trained clinicians who provide medical examinations, treatment, counselling, and referrals for psychosocial support to victims.

The CFMS centres are vital to the judicial process as they collect medical evidence from both survivors and perpetrators of interpersonal violence. Their expert findings are often presented in court to support prosecution and ensure justice is served.

The Importance of Immediate Medical Attention

MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko stressed the importance of seeking medical help as soon as possible, particularly in cases of sexual assault. Timely access to healthcare, ideally within 72 hours, is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and unintended pregnancies.

Victims who seek care early can benefit from post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a vital treatment that can reduce the risk of infection after exposure to HIV. The CFMS centres also provide follow-up dates to ensure continuity of care. This helps offer emotional support throughout the healing process.

Raising Awareness and Building Support Networks

One of the key challenges in combating GBVF and child abuse is the reluctance of victims to come forward. Many victims fear retribution or feel isolated, unable to speak out due to shame or fear of stigma. It is essential that communities create support networks where victims feel empowered and supported to report their experiences without judgment.

Victims of GBVF and child abuse need to know that help is available and that they are not alone in their struggles. The role of the community in raising awareness and offering emotional and practical support cannot be overstated.

How to Confront GBVF and Child Abuse

To actively confront GBVF and child abuse, the following actions can make a significant difference:

• Report incidents of abuse to local authorities or helplines.
• Support victims by offering them a safe space and directing them to appropriate services such as the CFMS centres.
• Raise awareness through community programmes and campaigns aimed at educating the public on the signs of abuse and available support services.
• Speak out against GBVF and child abuse in all settings: homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.

The Gauteng Department of Health and various NGOs continue to offer educational programmes and resources. These equip individuals with the knowledge to identify abuse and respond effectively.

Collective Responsibility

The fight against gender-based violence and child abuse is a collective responsibility. It requires the active participation of every individual in the community. By speaking out, providing support, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can create safer spaces for all members of society.

As MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko noted, it is essential to speak up when we see or suspect abuse. The sooner we take action, the sooner we can break the cycle and prevent further harm. Together, we can contribute to a safer, more just society.