The Western Cape Government (WCG) is committed to a 365-day approach to addressing gender-based violence (GBV), and not only during the United Nations 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign.
Among the many interventions of the Western Cape Government, is the resident-centric GBV Ambassador Programme that is implemented by the Department of Social Development (DSD). This model – which sees trained volunteers from the community assisting the department in raising awareness about GBV support services – has been implemented in Swartland, Delft, Grabouw and Heinz Park.
On 2 December 2024, Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt, launched the fifth programme in Ceres. He was joined by various officials from different spheres of government, including Chairperson of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament Standing Committee on Social Development, MP Bridget Masango, National Parliament’s Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, and Anita Sampson, Deputy Director for the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Bilateral Health Office.
Ms Sampson stated, “Strong partnerships are the cornerstone of sustainable development. Through our government-to-government agreement (designed to elevate the provision of services for vulnerable children in South Africa, particularly children living with HIV, those with disabilities, and survivors of sexual violence), we as USAID are proud to collaborate with the Western Cape Department of Social Development to uplift communities, strengthen systems, and ensure brighter futures for those we serve.”
Cape Winelands District Municipality Executive Mayor Dr Elna von Schlicht said, “It is through partnerships that the need for local ‘ambassadors’ was identified. It is through partnerships that we launch this wonderful project on the rural platform today. I am inspired by these volunteers, who selflessly assist their neighbours when they are at their most frightened and vulnerable. It serves as testimony to the Cape Winelands District Municipality’s commitment to partnerships that we celebrate today.”
