Gender-based violence (GBV) is a harrowing reality for many in South Africa. Every statistic, every story, every headline speaks to a crisis that demands our urgent attention. The recent restoration of the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) offers a much-needed glimmer of hope in this battle.
Let’s not forget the sobering facts: one in two women in South Africa will experience GBV in their lifetime. And it’s not just numbers—it’s real lives. Just recently, the nation was shocked by the brutal murder of a woman by her ex-husband, Sbusiso Lawrence Ntaka, a former Grade 4 teacher. Her only “crime”? Wanting to leave him. Tragedies like this remind us why accessible, immediate support for victims is non-negotiable.
Thankfully, the Department of Social Development has stepped up. After challenges with a non-performing service provider, the department took swift action to relaunch the GBVCC on 18 December, with voice call services restored as a priority.
The centre is now live, and victims can call 0800 428 428 anytime, day or night, to connect with qualified social workers for counselling and support. As the department stated:
“Due to the urgent need to resuscitate the services of the GBVCC, the department had to prioritise making voice services available. This means callers reporting incidents of GBVF will be able to do so by calling the command centre.”
What’s more, the centre’s geo-location capability is set to make a comeback, pending approval from the Information Regulator. This feature will enable responders to locate victims swiftly, saving precious time in emergencies. The department is pushing for this exemption under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), stating:
“The department will approach the Information Regulator for an exemption…to allow the GBVCC to track the location of victims or potential victims of GBVF.”
The GBVCC is also expanding its reach. Additional contact options like SMS, Please Call Me, Web-link, and WhatsApp will roll out early next year, ensuring victims can access help through multiple channels.
First launched in 2013, the GBVCC has always been a cornerstone in the fight against GBV. Its restoration marks a renewed commitment to supporting victims and connecting them to vital government services.
Every step forward matters. This isn’t just about reactivating a service—it’s about restoring dignity, safety, and hope for survivors. We must all do our part to spread the word, ensuring that no victim feels alone. Let’s make sure every call to the GBVCC becomes a call for change.