Gloria Motsoere24 May 2024 | 14:30

Ramaphosa says significant progress made in SA to address GBV since 2018

The president signed into law the anti-GBV legislation on Friday, which paves the way for the establishment of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence.

Ramaphosa says significant progress made in SA to address GBV since 2018

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers his 2024 State of the Nation (SONA) at Cape Town City Hall on 8 February 2024. Picture: GCIS

JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa said significant progress had been made in the country since 2018 in trying to address the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV).

The president signed into law the anti-GBV legislation on Friday, which paves the way for the establishment of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence.

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He also signed the anti-corruption bill, which makes the Independent Directorate (ID) permanent.

Ramaphosa reflected on strides made in trying to address GBV since 2018.

Between October and December 2023, close to 5,000 suspects were arrested for sexual offences.

Ramaphosa said there has also been a change in the treatment of GBV survivors.

"We have worked to improve the support provided to survivors of GBV through the establishment of new Thuthuzela Care Centres."

He has urged communities to work with police in outing perpetrators of GBV.