South Africa's Gender-Based Violence Command Centre experienced a significant surge in calls, receiving 589 calls in a single day, the highest daily number recorded during the first half of September. This increase comes amid a growing demand for support as the country's GBV crisis worsens. The Department of Social Development reported that the 24-hour helpline received the 589 calls on September 16, following a sharp rise in people reaching out for assistance between September 13 and 16.
During the four-day period between September 13 and 16, the centre received approximately 500 calls per day, compared to an average of 399 daily calls during the first 12 days of the month. Preliminary figures show that the command centre received 6,782 calls between September 1 and 16, an average of 424 calls per day. This represents a 21% increase compared to the same period in August, when the centre recorded an average of 350 calls per day.
The spike in calls comes as concern mounts over violence against women, particularly in Gauteng's Ekurhuleni District. According to the department, reports indicate that nine women have been found dead in the district since the previous week. These incidents have heightened fears and intensified calls for urgent and coordinated action to address GBV and femicide.
The Department of Social Development has cautioned against immediately interpreting the increase in calls as evidence of a sustained rise in GBV incidents. While the preliminary figures indicate increased demand for the GBV Command Centre's services, further monitoring and analysis are required to determine whether this represents a sustained trend in GBV-related incidents and calls for assistance.
The department has urged communities to report suspected abuse and ensure survivors know where they can obtain assistance. Communities are encouraged to report incidents of gender-based violence, speak out against abuse, and actively share the GBV Command Centre's contact details with family members, friends, and neighbors.
The department emphasized that tackling GBV requires action not only from government but also from communities, businesses, and other sectors of society. Members of the public can contact the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428, SMS "HELP" to 31531, or use its other support channels. The department encourages everyone to play a role in ensuring that survivors know where to seek help and that no one suffers in silence.
The surge in calls and the recent incidents in Ekurhuleni have highlighted the need for continued efforts to address GBV and femicide in South Africa. The department's GBV Command Centre remains a critical resource for those affected by GBV, providing support and assistance to survivors.
Key points
- The GBV Command Centre received 589 calls in a single day, the highest daily number recorded during the first half of September.
- The centre received 6,782 calls between September 1 and 16, an average of 424 calls per day, representing a 21% increase compared to the same period in August.
- Nine women have been found dead in Ekurhuleni District since the previous week, heightening concerns over violence against women.
