Despite President Cyril Ramaphosa announcing that the government will classify Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster, the Women for Change shutdown planned for Friday, 21 November, will still go ahead.
The president made the announcement at the G20 Social Summit, emphasising that South African women are calling for greater focus on GBVF and stronger protection.
Women for Change’s petition has drawn more than 1.1 million signatures, and an official declaration is expected to follow.
GBVF SHUTDOWN
The organisation said it has carried the stories of victims and survivors with deep honour and relentless determination, and that this persistence has now been recognised. Calling Ramaphosa’s announcement a historic acknowledgement, the organisation said South Africans have written history together.
“As we shut this country down, while the world will be watching. We will do this for every survivor who still suffers in silence. We will do this for the next generation, for our girls and boys,” said Women for Change.
According to Statistics South Africa, one in five women aged 18 or older has experienced physical violence at the hands of a partner.
PRESIDENTIAL CALL WELCOMED
Meanwhile, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has welcomed and fully supported the Presidential call. Describing the move as bold, the DWYPD said it marks a significant step in strengthening South Africa’s multi-sectoral response to GBVF.
“Recognising GBVF as a violation of human rights, the declaration will further elevate GBVF as a priority that demands urgent, coordinated action across all spheres of government, civil society, the private sector, and communities. The Department reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ending Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in South Africa,” said the DWYPD.
The department added that ending GBVF requires commitment from all sectors of society.
“Government alone cannot end GBVF. It demands a united front – where communities, men, and institutions actively challenge harmful norms, protect survivors, and uphold justice,” said Minister Sindiwise Chikunga.
