Mpumalanga Provincial Pre-Summit Report

In October 2022, Mpumalanga held a summit on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) with over 450 delegates from government and civil society. Statistics reveal a worrying reality in the province, with high female-headed households and a staggering unemployment rate among women. A recent study highlighted alarming statistics, such as 47% of female-headed households skipping meals due to financial struggles. The report provides a snapshot of the ongoing battle against GBVF, detailing crime statistics and the significant reduction in rape cases, though underreporting remains a concern. It also outlines the strides being made in implementing the National Strategic Plan (NSP) through the establishment of local task forces and multi-sectoral partnerships aimed at combating GBVF. Challenges such as insufficient resources, underreporting, and the lack of multi-sectoral collaboration are identified, alongside recommendations to strengthen accountability, collaboration, and survivor support structures. These recommendations aim to enhance the province’s response to GBVF and empower survivors.