The National Children and Violence Trust (NCVT) said South Africa needs sustained, year-round action against gender-based violence (GBV), warning that abuse remains widespread despite increased awareness campaigns.

Speaking about the organisation’s Purple Voices campaign, NCVT chief executive officer Pretty Ndlovu said the initiative is intended to keep conversations around GBV alive beyond annual awareness drives.

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“It’s a reminder that we are still living in a society, in a country, where GBV is still a pandemic. We’re saying let us conscientise people.”

She said the campaign promotes a 365-day approach, encouraging communities to remain vigilant and informed throughout the year.

“If we continue with the campaign daily, people can be conscientised. They can recognise that they are in abusive relationships or abusive environments and become aware that help is available.”

Ndlovu explained that NCVT conducts community awareness programmes twice a week, visiting communities on Tuesdays and Fridays to educate residents about different forms of abuse and provide support to those seeking to leave abusive situations.

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“We assist them with exit plans if they want to leave. At the end of the day, someone has to choose what they want, but we provide the information and support.”

Despite ongoing advocacy efforts, Ndlovu believes GBV has not significantly declined. “We are still fighting the struggle. It is far too early to say we are nearing the end.”

She attributed the persistence of violence to broader social challenges, including unemployment, trauma and financial dependence. “As long as there is no balance in people’s lives and basic needs, when you close one gap, another one opens, and the violence remains.”

She said the most common cases handled by the organisation involve domestic, emotional and financial abuse. She described emotional abuse as particularly damaging because it often affects entire families.

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“Most people are suffering through depression. Children who witness violence between their parents experience emotional abuse as well. They become lonely even though both parents are still in the home.”

Ndlovu said therapy has helped many survivors regain confidence and independence. “It is a very powerful tool. Once someone has been liberated in their mind, they can think clearly and make decisions on their own.”

To sustain the campaign, Ndlovu said the organisation is appealing for financial assistance from individuals and organisations.

“We are looking for financial support, in whatever form people can assist us with. We also need educational material to distribute so people know where to find us.

Those are the basic things we need to continue doing this work.”

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