DSD hopes for victim support expansion with GBVF classified a national disaster

As the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children comes to an end on Wednesday, the Department of Social Development is hopeful government’s classification of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster will expand support for GBVF survivors.

Sonke Gender Justice cautiously welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement at the closing of the G20 Social Summit in Johannesburg in November.

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Acting spokesperson for the Department of Social Development Sandy Godwana clarified what the classification will entail.

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

Sonke Gender Justice co-executive director Bafana Khumalo said the organisationwill be keeping a close eye on government.

"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."

Godwana said that the classification should lead to improved coordination between the justice, health and education sectors for GBVF survivors to receive better assistance.