Mpumalanga Premier shines spotlight on fight against GBVF
He said the provincial government had recently approved a provincial GBVF plan, and the council seeks to intensify measures to combat the issue.
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu launched the Provincial Council on GBVF at Graceland on February 19.
Members of the executive council, mayors, heads of departments and representatives from Chapter 9 institutions such as the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Justice were also in attendance.
In his address, Ndlovu said Mpumalanga had declared war on GBVF and that the newly established council would co-ordinate all activities to eliminate this societal crisis.
He said the provincial government had recently approved a provincial GBVF plan, and the council seeks to intensify measures to combat the issue.
Ndlovu also called on the crime-fighting sector, including the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison and the police, to ensure perpetrators are apprehended.
“The council will be composed of government representatives, with me as a co-chairperson. Other council members will include representatives from the private sector, civil society and traditional leadership.
“This council will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of GBVF-fighting strategies periodically to improve success rates,” said Ndlovu.
As a demonstration of commitment, stakeholders signed a pledge affirming their dedication to the fight against GBVF. The pledge acknowledged the declaration by President Cyril Ramaphosa that GBVF is a pandemic requiring robust, multi-sectoral interventions.
As part of their ongoing efforts, the provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to working collectively to eliminate GBVF and ensure Mpumalanga remains a peaceful, safe province, free from all forms of GBVF.
“We commit to effectively accounting for, co-ordinating and providing leadership in the fight against GBVF. We will also ensure the successful implementation of the Mpumalanga Provincial Strategic Plan on GBVF and other related frameworks.
“Additionally, we pledge to actively participate in all council activities, upholding the values of respect, dignity and transformation for the citizens of our province,” concluded Ndlovu.
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