Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) remains a critical national crisis. Recent data reveals staggering rates of violence:
National Femicide: South Africa’s femicide rate is approximately five times higher than the global average.
The prior year saw 5,578 women murdered, reflecting an alarming 33.8% year-on-year increase.
Prevalence Study: According to the Human Sciences Research Council, 33.1% (about 7.3 million) of South African women have experienced physical violence, and nearly 1 in 4 women have been victims of intimate partner violence.
Reported Crime Rates: The South African Police Service records an average of over 105 reported rapes per day, with over 11,000 sexual offences counted in single quarterly reporting periods.
National Disaster Response: Due to persistent life-safety risks, GBVF was officially declared a National Disaster by the South African Government, resulting in the allocation of R1.6 billion toward prevention, justice, and response frameworks.
For immediate support, survivors or concerned individuals can contact these resources:
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC): Call 0800 428 428
The People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) Helpline: Call 011 642 4345.
Information on NGO and private-sector funds and initiatives.A breakdown of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
