GBV is a national disaster, yet forensic nurses face shortages, job losses

Forensic nurses play a critical role in South Africa’s response to gender-based violence (GBV). 

As one of only two full-time forensic nurses in the Western Cape at the Thuthuzela Care Centre, Nontuthuzelo Ntwana is tasked with restoring dignity to survivors as they take their first steps toward seeking justice. 

Forensic nurses collect DNA evidence, document injuries, and complete medico-legal forms for rape and assault survivors.

Her position, however, is at risk due to budget cuts, says Ronel E. Stevens of Mosaic, an NGO working to end GBV.

Despite recently declaring gender-based violence a national disaster, the country is simultaneously reducing resources for frontline services.

The shortage represents a significant gap in the support infrastructure for survivors and also undermines the government's stated priorities in combating this crisis.

RELATED: Govt officially classifies gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster

"It is quite a crucial role that you absolutely need to be trained for, you need to understand what the rape kit needs to be measuring, what problems you need to be able to capture, and what needs to happen as a next step from the medical forensic examination," explains Stevens.

To listen to him in conversation with 702’s John Perlman, click below: