The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has thrown his support behind a new facility on the North Coast aimed at providing shelter and empowerment to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and abandoned children. This development was announced at the fifth annual DSK KZN GBV Gala, a masquerade ball held under the theme ‘Unmask the Truth. Ignite Change. Stand in Support’. The event, hosted by the Daniella Simone Keisha Group (DSK Group), a non-profit organisation, brought together leaders and advocates to push for stronger prevention and survivor support.
The DSK Group has been advocating for dignity and protection for 16 years, and according to its founder, Dr Daniel Rudy Chettiar, the organisation has given 1,740 women opportunities to start their lives, with many now employed by their partners. Chettiar emphasised that rescue is only the beginning and that true empowerment means helping survivors regain their confidence, independence, and hope for a better future. He called on attendees to unmask, speak out, and end the silence surrounding GBV.
Premier Ntuli noted that survivors of GBV have long carried an undeserved burden of shame and self-doubt, while perpetrators benefit from silence and societal denial. He stressed that survivors need more than protection and rescue; they require restoration, opportunity, and pathways toward independence and self-determination. Ntuli also highlighted the importance of economic empowerment, stating that one of the ways abuse happens is through economic deprivation.
In a significant development, Ntuli announced that Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer granted the DSK Group early occupation of one of the buildings owned by the provincial government for the purpose of helping GBV survivors and abandoned children. This move is expected to provide much-needed support to those affected by GBV.
Other speakers at the event, including Sibaya Community Trust chairman Vivian Reddy and Gift of the Givers founder Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, echoed the need for urgent action to address GBV. Reddy asserted that GBV demands the urgency of a national emergency and urged men to take responsibility, while Sooliman called for people to stand together and serve unconditionally to address the crisis.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, highlighted the alarming statistics of GBV in the country, with 47.2% of sexual violence cases recorded between January and March this year. Letsike emphasised the priority of prevention efforts, urging ward councillors and municipal officials to maintain community safety by ensuring street lights and grass are well-maintained.
The event also saw a call to action from various stakeholders, including a commitment to end GBV and a push for men to take responsibility and champion the cause. The DSK Group's initiative to establish a safe house on the North Coast is seen as a vital step towards providing support to survivors and empowering them to regain their independence.
Key points
- The KZN Premier has supported a new facility on the North Coast for GBV survivors and abandoned children.
- The DSK Group has given 1,740 women opportunities to start their lives and empowered them to gain independence.
- Stakeholders have called for urgent action to address GBV, emphasising the need for prevention efforts and community support.
