In a monumental stride towards protecting the rights and dignity of gender-based violence (GBV) survivors, the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children has finally received accreditation for its Khuseleka One-Stop Centre. This achievement marks the culmination of nearly a decade of perseverance and advocacy, underscoring the Centre’s pivotal role in offering sanctuary and support to those affected by GBV.

A Decade-Long Struggle for Recognition

The journey toward accreditation has not been easy. Since its establishment in 2015 by the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD), the Khuseleka One-Stop Centre has operated under the management of a dedicated non-profit organization. However, despite its unwavering commitment to serving GBV survivors, the Centre faced significant challenges in securing recognition from the national Department of Social Development (DSD).

For years, the Western Cape Government has lobbied tirelessly for the Centre’s accreditation, emphasizing the crucial services it provides to vulnerable women and children. Yet, the road to recognition was fraught with bureaucratic hurdles and delays. Nevertheless, the provincial DSD continued to fund and support both the Khuseleka Centre and the Saartjie Baartman Centre, ensuring that their lifesaving work could continue uninterrupted.

A Beacon of Hope for GBV Survivors

The Khuseleka One-Stop Centre stands as a beacon of hope for women and children who have experienced the trauma of violence. With its comprehensive array of services, the Centre offers a holistic approach to recovery and empowerment. Survivors have access to trauma counseling, psychological support, healthcare, police services, legal assistance, and even substance abuse treatment programs. The Centre’s commitment to addressing every aspect of a survivor’s journey—from immediate safety to long-term recovery—makes it an invaluable resource in the fight against GBV.

One of the most critical aspects of the Khuseleka Centre’s work is its multisectoral approach. By partnering with various stakeholders, including the National Prosecuting Authority, the provincial Department of Health, and the South African Police Service, the Centre ensures that survivors receive the comprehensive care and support they need. This collaborative effort is essential in breaking the cycle of violence and empowering survivors to rebuild their lives.

The Road Ahead: Building on a Historic Milestone

While the accreditation of the Khuseleka One-Stop Centre is a significant achievement, it is also a reminder of the ongoing work that lies ahead. The recent signing of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa represents a crucial step forward in the national response to GBV. The establishment of the Council, tasked with developing and implementing a national strategy to combat GBV, is a positive development that promises to build on the progress made by initiatives like the Khuseleka Centre.

However, as the Western Cape MEC for Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, cautions, the success of this initiative will depend on the Council’s ability to deliver on its promises. The development of a robust action plan, grounded in the lived experiences of GBV survivors, will be key to ensuring that the fight against GBV remains a priority on the national agenda.

A Triumph for Justice and Dignity

The accreditation of the Saartjie Baartman Centre’s Khuseleka One-Stop Centre is more than just a formal recognition of its services; it is a triumph for justice and dignity for GBV survivors. After nearly a decade of advocacy and resilience, the Centre’s lifesaving work has finally received the acknowledgment it deserves. As the nation continues to grapple with the pervasive issue of GBV, the Khuseleka Centre stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to human rights.

In the words of MEC Fernandez, “I hope the Council will do what it sets out to do, and that it is not just another political stunt.” For the sake of the countless women and children who depend on the Khuseleka Centre and similar facilities across the country, it is imperative that this hope becomes a reality.