In South Africa, the issue of domestic abuse is all too common, often resulting in tragedy for women who find themselves trapped in a cycle of violence and financial hardship. Having children with their abusers further entrenches this cycle, making it all the more difficult to break free from gender-based violence (GBV).
It is essential to tackle the root causes of inequality and the normalisation of abuse that exists in South Africa. Only by working together can we create a society where everyone is safe and supported.
Calls for a collective action to end violence
Chulumanco Nkasela, an activist based in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town, has had first-hand experience of GBV at the hands of a stranger. In 2017, while attending classes at Philippi East Library, she recalls being followed to and from the library by a man.
“I was harassed sexually and verbally, and even threatened by the person whom I didn’t know.”
Chulumanco Nkasela
Nkasela’s traumatic experience highlights the need for greater support for survivors of GBV, both from law enforcement and other institutions. The lack of action taken by the police in her case demonstrates the barriers that survivors face when trying to seek justice and protection.
This highlights the need for systemic change, including greater resources and training for law enforcement, as well as broader cultural and social changes to end GBV, she explains.
Addressing the root causes
“I was told to change my library times and routes, but this doesn’t do anything to address the root cause of the problem. For GBV survivors, there is little we can do other than trying to find healing.”
Nkasela points out that the root cause of these challenges, including fearing for one’s life, lies with the perpetrators and society at large. This includes young girls who date older men in exchange for financial gain, often leading to abuse and exploitation.
“That particularly speaks with the social condition, and the social disenfranchisement of women, where they find themselves in positions where they are not able to provide for themselves.”
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Putting an end to GBV
According to Thenjiwe Ngcobo, the founder of Incema NPO, from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, a survivor-centred approach is essential to effectively address GBV.
Incema’s programmes provide a secure and confidential space for survivors, including specialised programmes for children who have experienced sexual abuse, domestic violence victims, and victims of other gender-based crimes, she explains.
“We track the number of individuals reached through our programmes, monitor client progress through psycho-social assessments, and conduct follow-up sessions to gauge the effectiveness of interventions.”
Incema acknowledges that GBV is a widespread problem that requires a coordinated response from multiple stakeholders. While limited resources can pose a challenge, the organisation has developed partnerships with law enforcement and healthcare providers to create a coordinated response.
Additionally, they have strict confidentiality protocols in place to protect survivors’ identities and privacy. Incema believes that by working together, we can make progress in addressing the issue of gender-based violence and ensuring that survivors have access to the support they need.
“Many survivors of gender-based violence choose to keep their experiences private, due to fear of retaliation from the perpetrator or stigma from the community.”
Thenjiwe Ngcobo
Providing a safe space for survivors
“Providing a confidential space for them to share their experiences can be immensely helpful in their healing process.”
In her 18 years of experience in GBV and child protection, Ngcobo has found that victims and survivors need to feel safe and supported to heal and move forward. This includes providing a non-judgmental space for them to speak about their experiences, as well as ensuring that confidentiality is maintained.
She also highlights the crucial role of family support in creating a supportive environment for survivors. Without these elements, it can be difficult for victims and survivors to recover and move on with their lives.
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Consider reaching out for assistance and treatment
To seek assistance, please contact the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC), which operates under the Department of Social Development. The Centre operates a national call centre facility that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The facility employs social workers who are responsible for taking calls and referring them to the appropriate resources.
Further, you can reach out to Call Rape Crisis, or FAMSA, don’t turn a blind eye, and let’s fight together to stop gender-based violence in Mzansi!
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