National DSD “launches” Khuseleka Centre that has been operational since 2015

PLEASE ATTRIBUTE THE BELOW TO WESTERN CAPE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, SHARNA FERNANDEZ

Today, the national Minister of Social Development will be “officially” launching the Khuseleka One-Stop Centre at Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children. The Khuseleka Centre was established in 2015 by the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD).

While I welcome this recognition, it is difficult not to be cynical about the timing. It has taken nearly a decade for the national Social Development department to recognise this facility as a fully functioning Khuseleka One-Stop Centre, since it is managed by a Non-Profit Organisation and not run by government. 

The Western Cape Government has tried for years to get the necessary support from national DSD for this facility.

Despite this uphill battle for national support, the provincial DSD has continued funding both Khuseleka and Saartjie Baartman.

The Khuseleka One-Stop Centre provides support services to women and children who are victims of crime and violence, including trauma counselling and psychological support, healthcare, police services, and legal assistance. This facility in Cape Town is unique as it also has a substance abuse treatment programme.

The Western Cape DSD’s Victim Empowerment Programme has worked closely with the various partners to ensure survivors of GBV receive the necessary support at Khuseleka including the Saartjie Baartman Centre, the National Prosecuting Authority, the provincial Department of Health and Wellness, and the South African Police Service.

The Western Cape Government will continue to work with these stakeholders for the well-being of GBV survivors. I look forward to the national department doing similar.

Lastly, I cautiously welcome the signing of the National Council of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill, despite it also occurring days before the elections.

Provincial DSD has provided numerous inputs for this Bill over the years. The Department will keep a close eye on the Council’s objectives and functions, which include: “The Councill must develop an action plan, not later than six months after its establishment, for the implementation of the national strategy addressing gender-based violence and femicide.”

I hope the Council will do what it sets out to do, and that it is not just another political stunt.