MAHIKENG MAIL - MAHIKENG: Mahikeng will now give all vulnerable victims of Gender Based Violence (GBV) safe place to stay as the North West Social Development MEC, Basetsana Sussana Dantjie, opened a new 10-bed shelter in Mahikeng to provide support to victims of gender-based violence (GBV).
The facility operates 24/7 with accommodatipn, Trauma counselling and court preparation as part of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, partnering with government departments and non-profit organisations to ensure comprehensive care and protection for victims.
MEC Dantjie also urged men to be role models in their communities and encouraged open emotional expression, with her department funding men’s organisations to promote dialogue and mental health support.
The facility will also provide comprehensive social support services, including accommodation, trauma counselling, protection services, and safety. It operates in partnership with sister government departments such as the Department of Health, South African Police Service, Department of Correctional Services, and various non-profit organisations.
MEC Dantjie emphasised the importance of creating a welcoming and respectful environment at the shelter.
“Staff must ensure the centre is a space that guarantees confidentiality, professionalism, respect, and dignity for victims,” said Dantjie.
This new shelter is the second to be opened by Dantjie in just three months, following the Rustenburg safe house, marking a significant step in the province’s commitment to addressing GBV.
At the opening, MEC Dantjie also called on men to serve as positive role models within their families, workplaces, and communities.
“It’s time we move away from the idea that men don’t cry and instead encourage them to freely express their emotions and talk about their feelings,” she said.
She highlighted her department’s funding of men’s organisations, aimed at providing safe spaces for men to discuss their struggles without fear of judgement.
Mahikeng Executive Mayor Tshepiso Mphehlo, alongside representatives from organisations such as Angels of Tomorrow, Men for Real, and Ambassador for Change, welcomed the initiative. They noted that the shelter would significantly enhance psychosocial services for victims and survivors of GBV in the community.
