Saps Host Men’s Indaba To Combat Gender based Violence

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The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing in the Northern Cape, Major General Johny Besnaar, accompanied by the Acting District Commissioner of the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, Brigadier Kenneth Baloi, led a Men’s Indaba at the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality Chambers on Monday, 24 November 2025. The Indaba aimed to spark meaningful dialogue, break the silence surrounding Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and provide an inclusive platform for engagement and solutions. The session was attended by various stakeholders, including the Community Police Board, Men for Change, Departments of Justice, Correctional Services and Health, the National Prosecuting Authority, FAMSA, Kumba Iron Ore, SAPS Employee Health and Wellness, and the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. All partners pledged their commitment and reaffirmed that combating GBVF requires a united, collaborative effort. Outlining the purpose of the gathering, Deputy Chairperson of Men for Change, Captain Bennett Phoko, emphasised the pivotal role men play in addressing GBVF. He highlighted that men’s active involvement is essential in creating safe, respectful communities and fostering behavioural change. Throughout the Indaba, attendees engaged in robust dialogue to devise meaningful ways to contribute to the fight against GBVF including rejecting silence, advocating for stronger anti-GBVF policies, and challenging harmful societal norms. Advocate Mule Molokwane from the Office of the Family Advocate presented an overview of key legislation, including the Children’s Act of 2005, underscoring the legal framework that protects children and vulnerable groups. Delivering the keynote address, Major General Besnaar stressed the importance of a multi-faceted approach in tackling GBVF. He noted that programmes of this nature require the active participation of all stakeholders to confront the social ills that continue to endanger women and children. The South African Police Service in the Northern Cape remains steadfast in its commitment to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide through sustained initiatives and by calling on the public to work alongside law enforcement in creating safer communities. End Enquiries: Sergeant Merapelo Pilane 071 687 9401