The SAPS in the Northern Cape, in partnership with AVBOB, took a significant step toward strengthening support for victims and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) with the provincial launch of the “Together for You” GBVF+ Programme.

This strategic collaboration, established on Thursday 13 August, is aligned with the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF+) and aims to address the systemic challenges contributing to violence in the province.

School outreach the first step in launch

The initiative began with a school outreach programme at the NJ Heyns School in Kimberley, facilitated by Col Sebe Qunta. Dirk Neels, headmaster, welcomed the delegation that included Brig. Irene Kopeledi, provincial head of Pro-Active Policing.

Kopeledi emphasised that law enforcement cannot win the fight against GBVF alone, highlighting the necessity of partnerships between government, the private sector, and schools to create safe environments.

Maj. Gen. Johnny Besnaar, deputy provincial commissioner for Policing, urged learners to make responsible choices and familiarise themselves with their rights.

He encouraged victims not to suffer in silence, stating, “Breaking the silence can be the first step towards reclaiming your life … You are not alone, and you deserve to be heard, protected and supported”.

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As part of this phase, AVBOB comfort packs were handed over to the school for distribution to identified beneficiaries, sending a message to survivors that they are seen and they matter.

Official rollout undertaken

The programme proceeded to its official rollout at the Kimberley SAPS Gymnasium, attended by high-ranking officials including Lt. Gen. Koliswa Otola, Northern Cape provincial commissioner, as well as Ms. Limakatso Koloi, MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison.

Delivering the keynote address, AVBOB General Manager Kebo Mosweusweu underscored the importance of community mobilisation. She explained that AVBOB’s involvement was driven by its structure as a mutual society.

“AVBOB exists purely to create value for its members and then share that value back with them,” she noted, adding that because their members live in these communities, “if our communities do not thrive, AVBOB cannot thrive”.

Mosweusweu highlighted that the programme was informed by in-depth research and insights rather than being a “nice to have” project, moving beyond simple first-response services to active problem-solving.

The event featured two symbolic actions to cement the partnership, which involved the signing of a collaborative pledge: Reaffirming a shared commitment between the SAPS and AVBOB to end the scourge of GBVF+.

Comfort packs were handed to the SAPS as practical assistance designed to provide immediate dignity to survivors.

The police continues to urge anyone affected by GBVF to report incidents of abuse and utilise available support structures, reminding the public that every voice matters and every survivor deserves to live free from fear.

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