More effort and more resource
He said it is in the early stage of implementation and will be institutionalised across all levels of government.
“This legislation has taken far too long and I say that with humility due to a rather long process of consultation, but we are hopeful that process has been enriched by the extensive engagements.”
Ramaphosa called on individuals, institutions and leaders in society to play their part.
“This fight is about far more than ensuring survivors of GBV get justice. It is about preventing violence against women and children in the first place. It is in prevention that we need to place greater attention, exert more effort and dedicate more resources.”
RATE IT | Here’s how South Africa will fund fight against gender-based violence and femicide
Image: GCIS
President Cyril Ramaphosa says R1.6bn has been earmarked for the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Ramaphosa on Tuesday told the summit on GBVF that ministries were instructed to fund the national strategic plan.
'Top slice your budgets'
“Real money needs to be set aside so we can fund this fight. The R1.6bn was extracted from various departments. In a way, we said 'top slice your budgets and fund this whole effort'.
“Now that we have a proper council in terms of the law, the National Treasury will be able to set aside, on a separate basis, the money that will fund this fight.”
More effort and more resource
He said it is in the early stage of implementation and will be institutionalised across all levels of government.
“This legislation has taken far too long and I say that with humility due to a rather long process of consultation, but we are hopeful that process has been enriched by the extensive engagements.”
Ramaphosa called on individuals, institutions and leaders in society to play their part.
“This fight is about far more than ensuring survivors of GBV get justice. It is about preventing violence against women and children in the first place. It is in prevention that we need to place greater attention, exert more effort and dedicate more resources.”
Three new laws
In January, Ramaphosa signed into law three related acts — the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act.
“These new laws afford greater protection to survivors of GBV and ensure perpetrators are no longer able to use legislative loopholes to evade prosecution.
“Other reforms to strengthen the fight against GBV include the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill now before parliament.”
The Victim Support Services Bill has been approved by cabinet and published for public comment.
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