The GBVF Rapid Response Team was officially launched at the Msukaligwa Local Municipality Council Chamber on 27 May 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) within local communities.
The launch brought together various stakeholders, government departments and community organisations focused on improving cooperation and intervention in GBVF-related matters. The programme was led by Speaker of Council, Cllr N.S Xaba, together with Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr S.E Ngoveni.
During the engagement, discussions focused on strengthening collaboration through the implementation of the six pillars of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF. These pillars include accountability and leadership, prevention and social cohesion, justice and protection, support and healing for victims and survivors, economic empowerment, as well as research and information management systems.
Image: Stakeholders, government officials and community organisations gathered at the MLM Council Chamber during the launch of the GBVF Rapid Response
Stakeholders in attendance included Gert Sibande TVET College, Gert Sibande District Municipality, the Department of Education, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Development Agency (NDA), the Department of Social Development (DSD), Eagle Consultant, the Department of Sport, faith based organisations, the Men’s Forum and other community partners.
According to the municipality, the Rapid Response Team aims to improve stakeholder cooperation, strengthen referral systems and ensure a more coordinated response to cases of gender based violence and femicide within communities.
The municipality and its partners further reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening local response mechanisms and ensuring support and intervention for victims and survivors of GBVF.