THE FIGHT against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) took centre stage at the Kimberley police station this week, as a powerful coalition of police leaders, government departments, civil society organisations, and community members gathered to confront one of South Africa’s most pressing crises.

Held under the theme “Collectively, we can accelerate action for gender equality”, the high-impact dialogue was led by the provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, who has made GBVF a central focus of her leadership since 2022.

Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thabo Litabe said the event on March 27 formed part of the national effort guided by the 2019 GBVF Strategic Plan, born as a response to the GBVF crisis identified during the 2018 Presidential Summit.

Representatives from the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, non-governmental organisations, and community structures joined forces to map out their roles in the six-pillar strategy aimed at turning the tide on violence against women and children. From boosting victim support services to improving legal processes and preventative measures, each speaker underscored the need for united, co-ordinated action.

Lieutenant-General Otola made it clear: fighting GBVF is not just a job for law enforcement - it’s a shared responsibility. Her message was clear: there can be no justice without partnership.

The dialogue also gave space to survivors and advocates whose powerful stories added emotional weight to the day’s discussions, reminding everyone present of what’s at stake.

Closing the event, the Correctional Services regional commissioner for the Free State and Northern Cape, Commissioner Subashini Moodley, extended gratitude to all involved for keeping the spotlight firmly fixed on the need for justice, dignity and safety for all.

Lieutenant-Colonel Litabe said, “Through continued dialogue and collective action, SAPS and its partners remain steadfast in their mission to eradicate GBVF in the Northern Cape and beyond.

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