South Africa's declaration of gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster has not been accompanied by dedicated funding, according to Liesl van der Merwe, chair of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. This revelation was made during a briefing with various departments and organizations. Van der Merwe expressed concern that departments are expected to carry out expanded responsibilities using existing budgets.
The committee heard from several organizations, including the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Social Development, the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, and the Commission for Gender Equality. Members of the committee questioned how funding for the national strategic plan was being tracked across departments such as police, justice, education, and social development. They also inquired about budget shifts made by Social Development to support the council's secretariat.
Committee member Samantha Graham-Maré asked about the tool being used to monitor spending by other departments. The committee also raised concerns about the effectiveness of the national council before its staffing and governance arrangements are settled. Member Kgosi Letlape suggested that the department provide dedicated support until a permanent appointment and staff structure are in place.
The briefing followed the discovery of the bodies of nine women in Ekurhuleni, prompting the committee to bring forward a discussion planned for November. Deputy Minister Steve Letsike informed members that the strategic plan provides a common direction for prevention, survivor support, and accountability. However, the presentation identified uneven municipal capacity, weak referral pathways, and gaps in victim-support services.
A separate parliamentary appropriations committee plans to question ministers about funding for the GBVF response. The parliamentary account did not mention the appointment of an interim chief executive or a new funding allocation. Members requested a report on how the council's work would differ from that of the Commission for Gender Equality to avoid duplication.
The committee chair, Liesl van der Merwe, called for funding to be identifiable and ring-fenced so Parliament can track allocations and spending on the response. This would enable Parliament to monitor progress and ensure effective implementation of the national strategic plan. The committee's concerns highlight the need for a coordinated approach to addressing GBVF.
The discussion highlights the challenges in implementing the GBVF disaster declaration without dedicated funding. Key stakeholders will continue to engage on this matter, seeking clarity on funding and resource allocation.
Key points
- The GBVF disaster declaration lacks dedicated funding.
- Committee members are concerned about the effectiveness of the national council.
- A separate parliamentary appropriations committee will question ministers about GBVF funding.
