COGTA: GBVF's classification as national disaster doesn't grant govt access to emergency powers, funds

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has emphasised that while gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) has been classified as a national disaster, this designation does not grant the government access to emergency powers or specific emergency funds for the cause.

The decision to classify GBVF as a national disaster follows growing public outcry over the pervasive abuse of women and children across the country.

READ: IN PICS: Thousands of women across SA take a stand against GBV

COGTA has explained that the classification simply enables the government to respond to the scourge using existing legislation and resources, rather than triggering new emergency provisions.

Department spokesperson, Pearl Maseko, stated that the movewould ensure that all organs of state work together in a coordinated manner to find a solution.

"This decisive action follows a thorough reassessment of previous reports and updated submissions from organs of state as well as civil organisations," Maseko said.
"After evaluating the persistent and immediate life-safety risks posed by ongoing acts of violence, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has concluded that GBVF now meets the threshold of a potential disaster as defined in the act."