Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city, has been identified as one of the worst cities in the country for the killing of women and children. Mayor Dada Morero made this statement at the public launch of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) at FNB Stadium in Soweto on Friday. According to Morero, the latest crime statistics reveal a grim picture for the metro, with Johannesburg classified as a hotspot for GBV and sexual offences.
Morero emphasized that the city's high GBV and femicide rates should concern everyone, as Johannesburg is a land of opportunities that depends on its residents to build safer communities. He stressed that the narrative of high crime rates must change, and that the city can no longer stay silent while women and children are killed daily. The city's GBV and femicide rates are part of a national problem that requires a united front to combat.
The National Strategic Plan on GBVF focuses on three key areas: preventing violence, supporting survivors, and strengthening enforcement and accountability across all city departments. Morero called on all departments, law enforcement agencies, and the taxi industry to play their part in the fight against GBV and femicide. He urged residents to work together to build safer communities and stop the bleeding.
Disele Mokgatle, a GBV survivor, shared her painful testimony at the launch. She recounted her experience of being married to a prison warden at the age of 21 and living with permanent scars. Mokgatle's story highlighted the need for protection and support for victims of GBV, not only from perpetrators but also from their own families.
According to the South African Police Service, Johannesburg is among the highest cities nationally in GBV and sexual offences. This classification as a hotspot for GBV and femicide has prompted the city to take decisive action to address the problem. The city's strategy to combat GBV and femicide involves a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention, support for survivors, and strengthened enforcement.
The launch of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF in Johannesburg marks a significant step towards addressing the scourge of GBV and femicide in the city. Morero's call for a united front against GBV and femicide has been echoed by residents and stakeholders. The city's commitment to implementing the strategy and working with all stakeholders to build safer communities is seen as a positive move.
The fight against GBV and femicide in Johannesburg requires a sustained effort from all stakeholders. With the city's strategy in place, residents and stakeholders are hopeful that the tide can be turned against GBV and femicide. The city's progress in implementing the strategy will be closely watched, as it seeks to become a safer and more secure place for all its residents.
Key points
- Johannesburg is classified as a hotspot for GBV and sexual offences, according to the South African Police Service.
- The National Strategic Plan on GBVF focuses on preventing violence, supporting survivors, and strengthening enforcement and accountability.
- The city's strategy to combat GBV and femicide involves a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention, support for survivors, and strengthened enforcement.
