Premier Ramathuba urges united fight against GBVF

LIMPOPO – The Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba has called for urgent, collective action to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) following a sharp rise in cases across the province, particularly in Vhembe.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement session at Kalahari Waterfront near Nandoni Dam recently, Ramathuba said GBVF remains one of the most pressing crises confronting Limpopo communities. The session brought together government leaders, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, traditional leaders and faith-based structures.

“The latest crime statistics reveal that gender-based violence remains a serious challenge in our province. In Vhembe, sexual offences rose by 16%, with rape the most reported crime at 340 cases of which more than 220 involve children. Domestic violence also increased from 729 to 927 cases. These figures reflect the deep pain in our communities and remind us that we must act collectively.”

Hotspot police stations identified include Thohoyandou, Mphephu, Siloam and Saselamani, where incidents of assault and rape are rising most rapidly.

Ramathuba stressed that survivors must know support is available, including shelters, legal aid, psychosocial services and economic empowerment programmes.

“We must rebuild our communities, teaching respect, compassion and integrity in our homes, schools, churches, and workplaces,” she said.

She said that GBVF is not just a social issue but a violation of human rights and a direct threat to constitutional democracy, adding that laws alone are not enough: “Laws can punish, but only values can transform.”

Calling the fight a “collective pledge,” the premier urged communities, traditional leaders, faith groups, schools, businesses and civil society to unite in breaking the cycle of violence.

“We owe it to survivors still struggling to rebuild their lives, and to future generations so they inherit a society where dignity and equality are realities in their daily lives.”