Cabinet Urges Men to Join President Ramaphosa's Stand Against GBVF

During a media briefing on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasized that by signing the pledge, men commit to being part of the solution by adopting positive behaviors and taking responsibility for their actions.

Cabinet has reiterated its call for South African men to actively participate in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s initiative to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by signing a virtual pledge against the scourge. This call to action was launched by President Ramaphosa during the 2024 Women’s Day celebration in Pofadder, Northern Cape, where he signed the pledge alongside men from various sectors of society.

During a media briefing on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasized that by signing the pledge, men commit to being part of the solution by adopting positive behaviors and taking responsibility for their actions.

“It also commits men to never raise a hand against a woman, to treat women as equals, respect their rights, and to treat them with dignity. Managing GBVF as a collective will result in healthier, safer, and more peaceful communities in which women and children can thrive,” Ntshavheni stated.

The pledge can be signed online at www.stateofthenation.gov.za/endGBVF.

In addition to this initiative, Cabinet commended the recent opening of the 65th Thuthuzela Care Centre at Mitchells Plain Hospital in Cape Town. These centers provide critical support for victims of GBVF, reflecting the government's commitment to prevention, response, and support for victims, particularly women and children.

Cabinet also expressed concern over the rising number of adolescent pregnancies, urging society and parents to report any cases of sexual relations with minors, which is a criminal offense. Ntshavheni warned that if the challenge of teenage pregnancies is not addressed, it could perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit educational and economic opportunities for young girls.

“If the country does not work together to address this challenge of teenage pregnancies, women and young girls will continue to be trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, lack of educational and economic prospects,” Ntshavheni cautioned.