Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a serious concern in the Northern Cape. Whilst the province records fewer cases than Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal, the per capita rates are amongst the highest in the country.
Towns such as Kathu, Kuruman, and Postmasburg face persistent challenges, including murder, rape, kidnapping, and domestic violence. Alarmingly, the Northern Cape was the only province where murders rose in 2025.
The annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign has officially launched across South Africa, running from 25 November to 10 December. This global initiative links the fight against GBV with the protection of human rights, reminding us that safety and dignity are fundamental to equality.
South Africa adopted the campaign in 1998, expanding its focus to include violence against children. President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared GBV a national crisis, emphasising that violence against women undermines progress and equality, and that stronger protection and support are urgently needed.
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Recent statistics paint a disturbing picture for South Africa:
- 11 women are murdered daily – one every 2.5 hours
- 113 rapes are reported daily – nearly five every hour
- More than 5,500 women were killed in one year
- 51% of women report experiencing GBV in their lifetime
Seeking help
Victims of violence are urged to seek help by:
- applying for a protection order at the nearest magistrate’s court;
- developing a safety plan with trusted contacts, emergency numbers, and safe spaces; and
- accessing counselling through Famsa and the victim empowerment centres of the South African Police Service.
Famsa offers practical support, including drafting safety plans, counselling for victims, couple counselling services, and programmes for perpetrators such as anger management and conflict resolution.
ALSO READ: Famsa available at more locations in Kuruman throughout the week
Perpetrators are reminded that violence is not strength – it is harm.
Change is possible, but only through accountability. Famsa runs anger management programmes, conflict resolution workshops, and men’s dialogues across the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, guiding men to manage anger and replace violence with constructive dialogue.
Violence leaves deep scars
Children exposed to violence often suffer trauma and anxiety, and may normalise aggression. Academic performance, emotional stability, and future relationships are affected. Adults carry stress, depression, and broken community bonds.
The call to action is clear: “Recognise the signs. Break the cycle.”Together, Northern Cape communities can break the silence, end the violence, and build a future where women, children, and families live free from fear.
- Call Famsa on its emergency number 0800 014 520.
ALSO READ: Family help a phone call away
