The Khusela Devine Shelter was launched by Free State Social Development MEC in Koffiefontein last week. The country recently registered an unprecedented increase in violence against women and children. 

Provincial spokesperson for Social Development, Thembile Nqabeni, said President Cyril Ramaphosa responded by convening a presidential summit on GBV and femicide crimes which adopted the national strategic plan on GBVF. He said Ramaphosa declared GBVF as a second pandemic that the country has to confront.

Free State Social Development HOD, Tumelo Phahlo, said the shelter will go a long way in dealing with the GBVF pandemic.

FS Social Development HOD, Tumelo Phahlo during the launch of GBVF shelter in Koffiefontein. Photo: Facebook

"Women and children are being brutalised. In dealing with this issue which is a second pandemic, we are here to ensure that all five districts in the province have shelters."

Pahlo added stakeholders from JPS, the Department of Correctional Services and Justice were part of the launch. The Khusela Divine Shelter will be run by child welfare in partnership with the Department of Social Development.

Nqabeni said the shelter is intended to render protection, care, and support services to victims of crime and violence. Services that are going to be provided by the shelter include counselling and provision of a conducive environment for healing, court support services, skills, and development, including reunification services.

OFM News