Government classified gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster to strengthen the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF. The measure enables faster resource allocation for survivor services, expands access to shelters, safe spaces and psychosocial support, strengthens monitoring and oversight, and supports the continued rollout of victim support services, including specialised GBV desks at SAPS stations, a GBVF Information Centre, improved case management, and a 24-hour protection order service.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) reported that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Desks remain operational at every police station to ensure priority attention for GBV cases. SAPS also confirmed the availability of 1,161 Victim Friendly Rooms (VFRs) at police facilities nationwide and highlighted the continued expansion of Thuthuzela and Khuseleka Care Centres, which provide support, counselling, and referral services for victims of gender-based violence and femicide.

The Cabinet has approved a 90-day intensification programme to tackle the rise in Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The initiative, led by the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, aims to implement 19 focus areas and deliverables over three months.