Government launches 90-Day GBV blitz – Communities urged to act
In response to the GBV crisis, national leaders have rolled out a 90-day action plan—calling on every South African to report abuse, support survivors, and help drive change from the ground up.
In a decisive move to combat the devastating surge in Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), national government leaders recently held an emergency meeting.
This meeting, led by Ministers Mmamoloko Kubayi and Senzo Mchunu, has sparked a countrywide response and local communities are being urged to be part of the solution.
“We cannot rely solely on national systems. Real change begins in our homes, neighbourhoods, and community halls. We need every resident to report abuse, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable,” Mchunu said.
Community responsibility: Speak up, report violence
In line with the national directive, provincial and local JCPS structures are being revitalised to focus on community-led interventions.
This includes forming provincial task teams made up of security executives and senior government representatives, working directly with local leaders, NGOs, and residents.
Residents are urged to report any forms of violence whether against women, children, or members of vulnerable groups.
Silence enables abuse to thrive. By reporting suspected cases to the police, local councillors, or social workers, community members become the first line of defence.
“Violence does not begin with a broken bone. It starts with harmful words, coercion, and silence. We urge locals to not look away. Report it before it’s too late,” said Kubayi.
Local changes you can expect
Locally, residents will soon see visible improvements:
Increased support services such as the rollout of Thuthuzela Care Centres in all provinces, offering survivor-centred, one-stop services.
Improved safety at court facilities, especially for survivors and minors, through urgent upgrades to SOS and protection systems.
Enhanced police and prosecution coordination, reducing delays and backlogs in GBVF-related cases.
Public awareness and communication campaigns, including a national GBVF webinar and localised training for officials on how to better engage the public.
A community crisis
The JCPS Cluster also addressed the alarming rise in children arrested for sexual offences, prompting an urgent call for early intervention and education.
The broader message: GBVF affects everyone. It erodes the social fabric, breaks families, and undermines safety for all.
As implementation begins immediately, the government has stressed that incremental change is no longer enough.
“This is a full-force, all-hands-on-deck moment. We are not only implementing policies but we are demanding accountability from every part of society,” said Mchunu.
What you can do right now?
Report abuse to local police or call the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre at 0800 428 428.
Attend community safety meetings and participate in local initiatives.
Speak up when you see signs of violence or coercion – whether in public, at home, or online.
Support survivors by listening without judgment and guiding them toward professional help.
This blitz is not just a government campaign but it’s a national call to conscience. For our communities to be safe, every individual must take a stand.
The Alberton and Brackendowns CPF fully support the initiative.
