The fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Cape Town has received a major boost, with 138 new volunteers joining the Western Cape Department of Social Development’s (DSD) GBV Ambassador programme on Monday.
This marks the largest intake since the initiative began, and brings the total number of ambassadors across several Cape Metro communities to record highs.
The new recruits will support survivors of abuse and domestic violence by sharing information about available services, referring cases to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and DSD offices, and assisting at victim-friendly facilities in local police stations.
Key communities that gained additional ambassadors include:
- Retreat: 10 new ambassadors (21 total)
- Philippi: 46 (64 total)
- Mitchells Plain: 26 (46 total)
- Gugulethu: 35 (66 total)
- Wynberg: 19 (new)
- Metro East (Mfuleni & Khayelitsha): 2 (39 total)
For many, the programme is deeply personal. Mitchells Plain volunteer Samuel Roman said:
“Becoming a GBV Ambassador will be an honour. I will help to be a catalyst of change, and to make a difference in the community, to be an advocate against GBV.”
Western Cape MEC of Social Development, Jaco Londt, praised the growing movement, saying the steady rise in volunteers shows the programme’s impact.
“The fact that more residents are raising their hands to be part of this programme shows the influence that current ambassadors are having in their communities. We are creating a movement of hope and peace. These ambassadors are not only helping to prevent GBV but also ensuring survivors find safe spaces and access to support.”
GBV Ambassador programmes are already active in areas across the province, including Delft, Swartland, Grabouw, Ceres, the Cape Metro North and South, Cape Winelands, Overberg, and the Klein Karoo.
Residents requiring assistance or additional information can contact the Department’s toll-free line at 0800 220 250, email SD.CustomerCare@westerncape.gov.za, or visit the Victim Empowerment Programme website.
