JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — In a concerted effort to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), South Africa’s Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo announced the training of over 3,000 police officers in proactive and reactive measures.
The training initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the SAPS’response to GBVF cases.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been tasked with the installation of GBV Victim Friendly Rooms at key locations, including OR Tambo International Airport and nearly 80 police stations yet to have the facility. To date, 1079 police stations have GBV Victim Friendly Rooms, with an additional 73 satellites established. Deputy Minister Boshielo emphasized the need for empathy among officers when dealing with GBVF victims, noting that while police are trained to handle criminals and law enforcement, they must also be trained to be empathetic.
The proactive training has involved 1,411 officers, while reactive training has reached 1,684.
The initiative is seen as a significant step forward in providing support to GBVF victims, but it has also sparked questions regarding the necessity and accessibility of the GBV Victim Friendly Rooms, as well as the overall effectiveness of the training for police officers. Critics argue that while the focus on GBV Victim Friendly Rooms is commendable, the SAPS should prioritize the reinstatement of child protection units to ensure that children affected by GBVF receive the necessary support and protection.
As the initiative unfolds, the SAPS will need to monitor its impact and make improvements to ensure that the rights and well — being of GBVF victims are effectively protected across the nation.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Siya Tsewu
