To address the increasing levels of Gender-Based Violence in the province, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli is set to officially launch the "GBVF Mobile App." at the Durban University of Technology on Thursday.
In a statement to the media, Bongani Gina, Head of Provincial Government Communications, stated that the new app will play a crucial role in government's fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
"The app will be a crucial tool in strengthening the province’s efforts against GBVF by improving access to emergency assistance, legal support, and awareness campaigns," Gina said.
He further revealed that the initiative was a response to President Cyril Ramaphosa's declaration identifying GBV as a national pandemic due to the alarming increase in cases of GBV cases throughout the country.
"This initiative is in response to the declaration by the President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has recognised GBVF as a national pandemic due to their alarming increase.
"The launch underscores the Provincial government’s commitment to utilizing technology to create safer communities and ensure swift intervention in GBVF cases," he added.
According to a national study on GBV conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) last year, nearly 33.1% of women aged 18 years and older have experienced physical violence in their lifetime.
Additionally, the study revealed that 9.9% of women have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime, highlighting the significant levels of abuse against women.
Delivering the latest crime statistics for South Africa, police minister Senzo Mchunu, revealed that GBV remains a critical issue requiring intensified interventions.
He was commenting on the increase of rape cases in KZN, Mpumalanga and the Free State.
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