FirstRand Empowerment Foundation urges private sector to back GBVF fight at FNB Wes-Rand
Panel discussions and fitness sessions combine as business and civil society leaders examine practical ways to curb violence and empower survivors.
Government, civil society and private-sector representatives have been urged to work together to tackle South Africa’s gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) crisis during the Move-It for Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Activation hosted by the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation at FNB Wes-Rand on October 29.
The event brought together stakeholders to discuss the causes of GBVF, the responsibility of institutions and communities in preventing violence, and practical ways to strengthen accountability and support survivors.
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The programme combined panel discussions and awareness initiatives with instructor-led gym sessions aimed at raising funds for initiatives supporting the fight against GBVF.
Head of social investing at FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Konehali Gugushe highlighted the economic consequences of gender-based violence, arguing that its impact extends beyond individual survivors to affect the country’s broader development.
She said GBVF limits women’s economic participation while placing additional pressure on public healthcare and correctional services. “It has a cost of holding back, particularly women, who are the majority of victims, but also holding back the country,” she said.
She called on businesses to contribute to efforts aimed at creating safer communities and improving outcomes for women and other people affected by violence: “The private sector cannot hope to only make money from our society but to also channel and contribute positively towards shaping a better outcome.”
The foundation’s approach is guided by the national strategic plan on gender-based violence and femicide, with a focus on prevention and social cohesion, women’s empowerment, and research and data to strengthen interventions.
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Gugushe said the foundation works with several organisations involved in preventing violence, promoting safer communities and supporting survivors, including Heartlines and its Fathers Matter initiative, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, community-based organisations and NyaMugara Women Empowerment.
Gugushe also highlighted the foundation’s partnership with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in supporting Thuthuzela Care Centres, which provide assistance to survivors of sexual violence.
She said the foundation had supported the opening of three centres, with another recently completed in Paarl. Further expansion was planned, although the specific location mentioned in the event recording requires verification.
The partnerships reflect an approach that combines prevention with practical support for those affected by violence, including access to services and assistance in rebuilding their lives.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of involving men in efforts to prevent GBVF and challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours. Gugushe encouraged people affected by violence to speak out and seek help, while urging those who recognised harmful behaviour in themselves to seek support.
She pointed to the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces where men can have honest conversations about their attitudes, relationships and responsibilities.
The gathering at FNB Wes-Rand highlighted the role that businesses, community organisations and individuals can play in building safer communities and supporting South Africa’s ongoing fight against gender-based violence and femicide.
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