Rustenburg: As part of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has pledged to hand over 16 houses to victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) throughout the 16-day period. The initiative aims to provide tangible support to victims and survivors of GBVF, underscoring the department’s commitment to addressing the issue.

According to South African Government News Agency, Kubayi emphasized the importance of providing safe housing to reduce survivors’ reliance on abusive partners, thereby promoting independence and dignity. The initiative seeks to accelerate collective action and whole-of-society accountability to end violence against women and children. Kubayi highlighted that empowering women economically is crucial in the fight against GBVF, as a safe and secure home serves as a foundation for individuals to build their lives and become productive members of society.

The Minister further noted that when women are econ
omically resilient, they gain the freedom to leave harmful situations, take control of their lives, and create a better future for themselves and their children. During the campaign, the department aims to raise awareness and highlight practical efforts to reduce the vulnerability of women affected by GBVF by providing safe shelter.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is leading the national launch of the campaign, which is taking place in the Rustenburg Local Municipality in the North West. This year’s campaign theme is ’30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence against Women and Children’, focusing on tackling the root causes of GBVF and fostering a culture of positive masculinity, gender equity, and economic empowerment for women and children. The sub-theme emphasizes ‘Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Combat Gender-based Violence and Accelerate a Gender Inclusive Digital Economy’.

Kubayi, along with Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara, and Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xha
kaza, will also hand over Breaking New Ground houses to vulnerable groups at the Helderwyk housing project in Ekurhuleni. The handover of houses in Gauteng is a significant initiative by the department to support the 16 Days campaign.

The department has developed the Special Housing Needs Policy to assist victims of GBVF. To further demonstrate its commitment, the department has produced an awareness advertisement highlighting interventions to address GBVF. The advert will be launched today, marking the beginning of the campaign, and will be aired on SABC TV platforms to ensure widespread reach and visibility.