BONUS - RUSTENBURG - Ironically, as South Africa observes Freedom Month, the nation faces one of its most pressing challenges: continued violence against women, which can be described as a pandemic in itself.
As South Africa commemorates 30 years of democracy, it becomes increasingly crucial to address the systemic inequalities that continue to affect women's lives, as the country has one of the highest incidences of gender-based violence (GBV) globally, and statistics reveal that many women who survive GBV, fail to obtain justice for themselves.
This is because of lack of knowledge about legal recourse, limited understanding of their rights, entrenched shame and stigma, fear of secondary victimisation, distrust in the criminal justice system, and the daunting task of navigating complex court processes.
Hlanganisa Community Fund for Social and Gender Justice (hereafter Hlanganisa) is an innovative intermediary grant maker aimed at strengthening social accountability and promoting human rights in pursuit of social justice. They do this by intervening at grassroots level and creating partnerships in rural communities.
In 2022, Hlanganisa launched its Sisterhood Advocates Project (SHAP) as a strategy to make justice accessible for survivours of GBV.
This is done by means of grant-making, capacity building, networking, and advocacy, with support from funding partners. Through SHAP, Hlanganisa has made significant strides in addressing GBV and empowering survivors by promoting women's rights, amplifying their voices, and dismantling the structures that perpetuate GBV. With over 15 years’ experience, Hlanganisa has been a champion for the rights of marginalised groups with a reach of over 800 community-based organisations. Their footprint spreads across Southern Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Hlanganisa remains committed to fostering a society where all women can live free from violence and fear.
"Together, we can build a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from fear and discrimination. In partnership with IDC and SEF, we're proud to combat gender-based violence and promote social justice. Together, we stand for a future free from fear and discrimination," stated Bongiwe Ndondo, CEO of Hlanganisa.
Hlanganisa's work include:
* Increased reporting of cases due to support provided to survivors by Sisterhood Advocates (SHAs).
* Improved case management of GBV cases through follow-up and support of survivors.
* Enhanced collaboration by addressing GBV at community level.
* Economic empowerment for SHAs through the social employment fund, reducing the risk of GBV.
* Greater community cohesion as community members actively engages in addressing GBV.
* Professional and personal growth for SHAs, gaining practical skills to serve communities effectively.
* Survivor empowerment by the involvement of Sisterhood Advocates who are survivors themselves.
