Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) remains one of the most urgent social challenges affecting women and children in South Africa. It deeply affects emotional, physical and social wellbeing, and its impact is felt within families and across communities.
Statistics South Africa reports that one in three women aged 16 and older has experienced physical violence, while one in five has suffered sexual abuse. The President declared GBV and Femicide (GBVF) as the second pandemic to COVID-19 in recognition of its severity, scale and impact on the nation.
South Africa has progressive laws and policies intended to protect women and children. Implementation challenges, harmful social attitudes, and persistent gender inequalities have resulted in continued abuse.
These factors highlight the urgent need for stronger collaboration, improved support systems and wider awareness to address GBVF and ensure the protection and empowerment of survivors.
The National Department of Social Development (NDSD), in partnership with the National Shelter Movement South Africa (NSMSA), will host the 5th Annual National Shelter Indaba from 11 to 13 November 2025.
The Indaba brings together stakeholders from the public sector, civil society, academia, shelters and development partners to strengthen prevention and early intervention efforts and improve support services for women and children affected by violence.
The National Shelter Indaba has served as a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing since 2021. It continues to promote collaboration, identify service delivery gaps and develop effective strategies that uplift and protect survivors.
The 2025 theme, “Sheltering and Beyond: Building Bridges of Prevention and Intervention”, focuses on sustainable, integrated and coordinated support for survivors.
Members of the media are invited to attend the Indaba either physically at Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre or virtually.
MAIN EVENT
Date: 11 - 13 November 2025
Time: 9h00 – 16h00
Venue: Birchwood Hotel and O R Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg
Media RSVPs may be directed to Ms Precious Mupenzi on 0837150034 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
