As the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign ends, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to turn the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) into sustained action.
Ntuli said the province plans to intensify its efforts to combat GBVF through policy reforms, increased funding for survivor support programmes and partnerships with civil society and the private sector.
“We are taking a stand to ensure that the progress made during these 16 days is not lost but built upon, so that every day becomes a step closer to a safer, [and] a more equitable KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said.
While the 10th of December marks the end of the campaign, the day also kick starts government’s intention to confront the scourge of GBVF in South Africa for 365 days.
Ntuli emphasised the province’s transitioning from the 16 Days of Activism campaign to a year-round commitment to combat gender-based violence and femicide, and the need for sustained collective action to eradicate the scourge.
“Our fight against GBVF cannot be confined to 16 days. It must be a 365-day campaign involving every sector of society, from government to communities and businesses,” Ntuli said.
He highlighted the province’s holistic approach to tackling GBVF, which includes strengthening survivour support services, fostering collaboration between communities and law enforcement, and addressing the root causes of violence, through education and economic empowerment programmes.
Inspection of spaza shops and retail outlets
Ntuli wrapped up the province’s commemoration of the campaign with a series of activities in Gamalakhe, in the Ugu District on Tuesday.
The day started with an inspection of spaza shops and retail outlets in the area. The inspections were aimed at ensuring compliance with health, safety, and business regulations to protect the community’s well-being.
During the inspections, Ntuli engaged directly with business owners, emphasising the importance of creating safe, sustainable environments that not only benefit the local economy, but also contribute to the overall safety and security of the province.
“This is about more than just regulations - it’s about building a business culture that respects the laws of our country while also prioritising the safety and dignity of our communities,” Ntuli said.
The inspections in Gamalakhe underscored the interconnectedness of economic development and social upliftment.
The Premier pointed out that businesses, especially in vulnerable communities, play a crucial role in creating safe spaces and reducing the risk factors associated with violence.
The Premier also noted that ensuring compliance with business regulations is not about punishment but about fostering a culture of responsibility and care.
“When businesses operate within the law and prioritise community safety, they contribute to a more stable and resilient society,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
