By Anita Dangazele
- The government hopes the programme will help women escape abuse for good and build better lives.
- Women will get training, counselling and small business help to become independent after surviving gender-based violence.
The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has started a new programme to help women who have survived abuse.
The Socio-Economic Empowerment Programme will teach women skills they can use to earn a living and support themselves.
Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta said the programme gives survivors the tools they need to recover and take back control of their lives.
She said many women are left with no money or job after facing abuse, which makes it hard for them to get out of dangerous situations.
“According to recent statistics, one in three women in South Africa has experienced some form of gender-based violence in her lifetime,” said Fanta.
The programme includes training in sewing, cooking, computer skills and how to run a small business. It also helps with writing CVs, preparing for interviews and finding a job.
Women will learn how to manage money and can apply for small grants to start businesses. Support groups and counselling will help with healing from trauma.
The department is also asking local companies to offer jobs and make workplaces safer for survivors.
The programme will also teach people how to speak out against abuse and support survivors.
Fanta called on the government, businesses, NGOS and communities to help make the programme a success.
Pictured above: Fanta with some of the women at a skills training workshop.
Image source: Department of Social Development
