The Akasia CPF has expanded its GBV support programme to provide counselling, awareness workshops, healing sessions and food security projects aimed at supporting survivors and strengthening community well-being.
Akasia CPF Sector 2 has expanded its GBV Care Health Support Initiative as part of ongoing efforts to support survivors and strengthen community well-being.
The initiative, which focuses on healing, awareness, education and emotional support, was introduced following the positive impact of the programme’s first phase within the community.
Akasia CPF Sector 2 Chairperson Interim Lerato Makwe, said: “The overwhelming response from the community during the first phase inspired us to continue and strengthen the programme.
“Many survivors, families, and community members expressed the need for ongoing support, healing platforms, awareness programmes, and safe spaces where people can openly discuss GBV challenges.”
She explained that the first phase helped create awareness around GBV while encouraging survivors and affected families to seek support and counselling.
“We saw increased community participation, stronger collaboration between stakeholders, and emotional healing through workshops and prayer sessions.
“Most importantly, survivors began feeling heard, supported, and less isolated within the community,” she said.
The second phase of the programme will focus on sustainability and long-term community impact.
The CPF plans to introduce regular counselling sessions, educational workshops, food security gardening projects and stronger volunteer involvement from retired healthcare professionals, doctors and nurses.
Makwe said the initiative aims to provide emotional support sessions, trauma support conversations, peer support platforms and community referrals for survivors and their families.
“Families affected by GBV will also be included because healing often requires community and family support structures,” she added.
Educational workshops will also form an important part of the programme as these sessions will focus on awareness, prevention, healthy relationships, emotional well-being and the importance of reporting GBV.
“We believe education is one of the strongest tools in preventing violence and restoring dignity within communities,” said Makwe.
One of the unique additions to the programme is the inclusion of community gardening initiatives aimed at promoting food security, wellness and healing.
Makwe explained that many vulnerable families affected by GBV also face poverty, unemployment and emotional stress.
“Gardening promotes healing, community unity, sustainability, and access to healthy food. It also creates a positive environment where people can reconnect, heal, and work together productively,” she said.
Prayer sessions and spiritual support will also continue as part of the programme to provide comfort, encouragement and hope to survivors and families.
Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, fear among survivors to speak out, unemployment and social stigma, the CPF remains committed to building stronger community support systems through partnerships with stakeholders, volunteers and SAPS.
Makwe encouraged survivors not to remain silent.
“You are not alone, and your voice matters. Speaking out is not weakness; it is courage. There are people within the community who care, who are willing to listen, support, and walk the journey of healing with you,” she said.
Trott Chaane is a journalist at Pretoria Rekord, focusing on local news. With experience in audio editing and online news, Trott delivers well-researched and accurate articles. Dedicated to impactful journalism, he is passionate about growing in the field and making a difference.
