Zululand gets first GBV shelter for survivors of abuse

Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga has officially opened a new centre to support victims of gender-based violence (GBV) in Zululand District.

Launched on Friday, the centre addresses a long-standing gap in KZN, as Zululand was the only district without a dedicated survivors’ shelter.

Shinga said the opening marked an important step in strengthening support for vulnerable individuals.

“This opening is not simply a formality; it represents a crucial step forward in providing necessary assistance and resources to those in need within the community,” she said.

The new facility, named the Zululand GBV Shelter, honours the late Zanele Magwaza-Msibi, former Zululand mayor and deputy minister of science and technology.

The shelter will provide a safe space for survivors and offer a range of services, including psychological counselling, legal assistance, and empowerment programmes to support recovery and reintegration.

“Magwaza-Msibi is among those leaders who fought her way to become a champion of women’s rights, justice and economic emancipation. Hence, she will always be remembered. We extend our gratitude to her family for allowing the department to honour her enduring legacy,” said Shinga.

She added that the initiative demonstrates the Department of Social Development’s commitment to protecting GBV survivors and improving their access to essential services.

Shinga also joined local leaders and government departments at a World Population Day event in KwaCeza on Friday. The gathering took place at the Mgazini community hall and focused on this year’s United

Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) theme: Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World.”

The theme highlights issues such as reproductive rights, social justice and gender equality. These challenges remain particularly pressing in Zululand, where high teenage pregnancy rates, gender inequality and poverty continue to affect many young women and girls.

Addressing the youth, Shinga urged them to avoid drugs and excessive alcohol consumption, stressing the importance of making healthy lifestyle choices. Her message underscored the need to build a safer, more equitable society for the next generation.

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