As we enter the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, the Office of the MMC for Health in the City of Tshwane reaffirms its unyielding commitment to confronting this pervasive societal affliction. Gender-based violence is a scourge that continues to haunt our communities, affecting countless lives and undermining the very fabric of our society. We stand united in our determination to combat this issue with unwavering resolve, ensuring that our healthcare system serves as a frontline defence for survivors.
Our approach aligns with the National Strategic Plan against Gender-based Violence and Femicide (2020–2030), particularly Pillar 4, which emphasises response, care, support and healing. We recognise that our healthcare professionals are pivotal in this fight and we are dedicated to empowering them to provide immediate, effective and compassionate support to survivors. This is a call to action for every healthcare worker in clinics, facilities, communities and civil society organisations to remain steadfast in their commitment to these vital response measures. We are committed to execute our duties with the highest levels of sensitivity and professionalism.
Healthcare workers are the cornerstone of our response strategy. They are tasked with delivering immediate medical attention to survivors, addressing injuries and providing preventative treatment for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. We stress the importance of this initial medical response, as it make a difference between life and death for many survivors. It is our duty to ensure that every individual who walks through our doors receives the care and support they need to begin their healing journey.
Moreover, the psychosocial well-being of survivors is of paramount importance. We are committed to offering comprehensive psychosocial interventions, including counselling and support services, that are designed to empower survivors. Our aim is to equip them with the confidence and resources they need to demand justice and to rebuild their lives. We offer integrated interventions by referring survivors to relevant service providers. These include the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Social Development and civil society organisations. We understand that healing from trauma is a complex process, hence our commitment to support survivors every step of the way.
Confidentiality, respect and dignity are the cornerstones of our approach to supporting survivors. We are resolute in our commitment to safeguarding the privacy of those who seek our help, ensuring that they are treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Secondary victimisation is a grave concern and we are determined to prevent it by fostering an environment of trust and compassion within our healthcare facilities.
Collaboration is essential to our strategy. We are actively engaging with community-based organisations, social services and law enforcement agencies to create a comprehensive multisectoral and integrated support network for survivors. This collaborative approach ensures that survivors receive holistic care that addresses all aspects of their well-being, from medical treatment to legal assistance, family and community support.
Our municipal clinic initiatives are a testament to our commitment to providing timely responses and increasing access to care for survivors of gender-based violence. These initiatives are designed to prevent the transmission of infections, such as HIV, through pre-exposure prophylaxis within 72 hours. Additionally, we aim to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and to ensure that survivors have access to the support they need, whenever they need it. We believe that by removing barriers to care, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals affected by gender-based violence.
As we commemorate 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, we reaffirm our dedication to creating a society where gender-based violence is eradicated. We envision a future where healthcare services are not just a means of treatment, but a beacon of hope and support for survivors.
The 2024 City of Tshwane Integrated Development Plan reiterates this commitment in Strategic Priority 7 and 10. Strategic Priority 7 focuses on care and support for the vulnerable and providing social relief, while Strategic Priority 10 centres on creating a healthy and vibrant city.
Our commitment to addressing the social determinants of health is unwavering and we are determined to create a safer and healthier community for all.
We call upon all stakeholders, community leaders, civil society organisations and individuals to join us in this critical fight against gender-based violence. It is only through collective action and unwavering dedication that we can create a meaningful change.
Together, we have the power to transform our society and to build a future where all individuals can live free from the fear of violence and discrimination.