WATCH | Lifeline for GBV survivors

A R2.4 million programme aimed at helping survivors of gender based violence (GBV) and those affected by femicide rebuild their lives was launched on Wednesday with 122 beneficiaries set to gain employment opportunities in eMaqongqo and surrounding areas. The initiative, spearheaded by the Mkhambathini Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was unveiled during a media briefing in Pietermaritzburg. Chamber chief executive Simphiwe Mngoma said the project seeks to break the cycle of abuse by reducing victims’ financial dependence on their abusers.

“In most cases, women who experience GBV are dependent on their abusers for financial support,” he said. Mngoma said the employment drive would play a critical role in restoring dignity and independence among survivors, while also targeting unemployed youth in the area. The programme forms part of broader efforts to intensify GBV and femicide awareness campaigns, in line with a call by Deputy Minister Dr Polly Boshielo for nationwide action against the crisis.

At the same briefing, police said community engagement initiatives were already yielding results. Bishopstowe police station captain Sandile Sikhosane said officers in Bishopstowe and eMaqongqo had been holding izimbizo and awareness campaigns to address GBV. “Since we started with izimbizo, GBV cases have decreased,” he said. The chamber said the initiative marks a significant step towards tackling both the social and economic drivers of GBV in rural communities.