WC launches 10th GBV ambassador programme

THE Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) has intensified its fight against gender-based violence (GBV) with the launch of its 10th GBV Ambassador Programme, expanding coverage to Cape Town's Metro South region.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

The new cohort of 68 trained GBV Ambassadors will serve communities in Manenberg, Heideveld, Lavender Hill, Steenberg, Philippi, Browns Farm, and Gugulethu. These volunteers play a vital role in raising awareness about available GBV support services, assisting in early interventions, and working closely with the police and refer cases of domestic violence. They also volunteer in the police victim-friendly rooms to support survivors.

With this latest launch, a total of 283 ambassadors are now active across the province, including areas such as Swartland, Delft, Grabouw, Ceres, and parts of the Cape Metro.

For many of these volunteers, the programme is both personal and transformative.