Another boost for GBV support services for Cape Metro
The Western Cape Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Gender-Based Violence Ambassadors are making their presence felt in the City of Cape Town.
On 5 May 2025, the department launched its 10th GBV Ambassador programme, this time in the Metro South region, which covers Manenberg, Heideveld, Lavender Hill, Steenberg, Philippi, Browns Farm, and Gugulethu. Sixty-eight trained GBV Ambassadors will cover these respective areas, providing information about support services available to residents for the intervention and prevention of GBV.
They also support the local DSD office with referrals of domestic violence cases to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and will volunteer at their nearest police station’s victim-friendly room.
With the launch of the Metro South GBV Ambassador programme, there are now 283 ambassadors volunteering across parts of the province.
“I want to empower others, showing that supporting our communities should not limit us because of age. If I can do it, so can they. GBV is a big problem, and we need to stand together to fight this horrible disease in our society. I really hope to make a difference,” said Noluthando Mazwi, a 73-year-old resident and GBV ambassador from Gugulethu.
Paul Mdidisi believes this programme will play a vital role in his community, and emphasised the need for residents to work together. “The GBV training has helped us with tools to address GBV in our own communities, support victims and deal with the perpetrators,” said Mdidisi.
The other GBV Ambassador programmes are operating in Swartland, Delft, Grabouw, Philippi, Heinz Park, Ceres, and Metro North (Dunoon, Bishop Lavis, Langa, Elsies River, and Fisantekraal).
Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt said, “I commend these GBV Ambassadors for raising their hands to make a positive difference in their communities by supporting victims of abuse. They are not only strengthening the hand of the Western Cape Government in its efforts against GBV, but they also inspire others in their communities to be change agents. They are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those most vulnerable in our province. Their work is a vital pillar in building safer, more compassionate communities across the Western Cape. Thank you also to all the NGOs that support DSD in getting vital support services to victims of abuse and violence.”
To access more information about services offered by the Department for GBV victims, call our toll-free number on 0800 220 250, send an email to SD.CustomerCare@westerncape.gov.za or visit: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/social-development/service/victim-empowerment-programme
Media Enquiries
Esther Lewis
Head of Communication
Department of Social Development
Email: esther.lewis@westerncape.gov.za