By 
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday evening addressed his nation on the issues pertaining to Gender based violence of women and children as he assured them that plans were underway to resolve the matter.
South Africa is one of the African countries with many cases that are recorded of domestic violence. These are usually caused by Harmful Gender Norms. Gender stereotypes and are often used to justify violence against women. Just as empowering women can help eliminate hunger, food scarcity also leads to increased gender-based violence.War and conflict are also other contributing factors to the cause of violence.
The Covid 19 lockdown did not ease situations in the Southern African country as many people lost jobs and this had negative impact even in families due to frustrations and stress. Children also suffered physically and emotionally.
With South Africa’s huge HIV burden, millions of children are without parents and are placed at further risk in child-headed households. South Africa is a major destination for refugees fleeing crises, but their children face discrimination and are often denied access to school and healthcare services.
Gender-based violence is an emergency in South Africa. While young boys are victims of all forms of violence, there are shocking levels of violence, especially sexual violence including rape, perpetrated against girls and young women.
In his speech Ramaphosa said, “Fellow South Africans, Violence against women and children has continued unabated during the period of the pandemic. We are determined to continue with our resolve to deal with the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. Based on the latest data, we have identified 30 hotspots around the country where this problem is most rife.”
“As we move to the next alert level, we are increasing and improving support services for survivors of gender-based violence, particularly in the identified hotspots. This includes the rollout of an integrated and multidisciplinary model that incorporates psycho-social support, case investigation, housing services and economic empowerment for survivors under one roof. “
“Work is underway to expand this model of care and support to all provinces. Let us spare no effort to eradicate the problem of violence against women and children.”
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