​Communities across South Africa are being urged to take a firm stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), as well as child abuse, by reporting perpetrators and ensuring they are held accountable. The goal is to create safe spaces for victims and those vulnerable to these heinous crimes.
This powerful call to action was made by Deputy Minister of Police, Dr. Polly Boshielo, during the Walk Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, an initiative championed by (Mzansi) Act Now. The walk began at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and concluded at Maponya Mall in Soweto, drawing attention to the ongoing fight against GBVF.
Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 22 219 individuals for GBVF-related crimes. These arrests include perpetrators charged with murder, attempted murder, assault, intimidation, harassment, stalking, and economic abuse - such as withholding or stealing victims' earnings, as well as emotional abuse aimed at breaking down victims' self-esteem.
Deputy Minister Boshielo highlighted that the Western Cape recorded the highest number of GBVF arrests during this period, with 4 727 cases, followed by Gauteng with 4,278 and KwaZulu-Natal with 3 802. She emphasised that South Africa's commitment to preventing, investigating, and combating GBVF is not limited to the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. 
"Through multi-pronged strategies and partnerships, government remains constitutionally obligated to end this scourge," said the Deputy Minister. 
Echoing the Deputy Minister's sentiments, MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, urged participants of the walk to play an active role in confronting GBVF and child abuse, encouraging everyone to speak out and support those affected.
"I want to urge you all to actively confront GBVF and child abuse. If you see something, say something. If you know someone who is suffering, reach out and offer your help," said the MEC.
To ensure that GBVF and child abuse, as well as their families have the immediate support needed, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) operates 27 designated Clinical Forensic Medical Services (CFMS) facilities across the province. 
These centres are staffed with qualified clinicians who provide medical examinations, treatment, counselling, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and referrals for psychosocial support. Victims are also given follow-up dates to ensure continuity of care.
CFMS centres play a crucial role in the judicial process by conducting clinical forensic examinations to collect medical evidence from both survivors and perpetrators of interpersonal violence. Their expert findings are presented in court to support prosecution and justice.
The MEC stressed the importance of seeking medical attention as soon as possible, preferably within 72 hours, after a sexual assault. Timely access to healthcare is vital for treatment and prevention of sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and unintended pregnancies.
"It is important for victims to get access to these services so they can receive the necessary care and preventative measures. These centres offer a comprehensive package that includes care for sexual offences, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, child abuse, both sexual and physical, and substance abuse," she said. 
The walk was attended by several notable figures, including Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lt. General Tommy Mthombeni, legendary composer Lebo M, rapper and podcaster L-Tido, and actor Zola Hashatsi, among others, all lending their voices to the cause.