SAMA Women’s Wing reaffirms commitment to end gender-based violence

As the world commemorates the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the South African Medical Association (SAMA) Women’s Wing has reiterated its unwavering dedication to combatting this pervasive issue, which it classifies as one of the most pressing human rights and public health crises in South Africa. The ramifications of GBV extend far beyond individual experiences, inflicting profound physical, psychological, and social traumas on survivors and communities alike, the association says.

“Our work goes far beyond this annual campaign,” says Dr Sharon Harbor, chairperson of the SAMA Women’s Wing. The medical body is acutely aware of the harrowing experiences of GBV survivors, and highlights the pressing need for collective action centred on prevention, protection, and healing. “We continue to strengthen healthcare-led survivor support, expand community education on recognising and reporting abuse, and champion gender-sensitive, trauma-informed care in health facilities,” she adds.

In addition to supporting survivors, SAMA’s Women’s Wing advocates for enhancing safety in healthcare workplaces, as many women in the sector face harassment and violence within their professional environments. The committee also plays a crucial role in policy advocacy, calling on the government to adequately resource and enforce the National Strategic Plan on GBV and Femicide, emphasising the importance of addressing existing gaps, particularly within the health sector.

The SAMA Women’s Wing recently participated in the Women for Change protest, where hundreds of people staged a poignant 15-minute lie-down to symbolise the estimated number of women who lose their lives to GBV each day. Coinciding with increased awareness during the G20 Summit —  where leaders declared GBV and femicide a national disaster — Dr Harbor noted that such initiatives reinforce the need for co-ordinated, multi-sectoral efforts and enhanced resources for prevention and response.

“These developments are significant and strengthen the mandate for co-ordinated action,” she says. The G20 Leaders’ Declaration reinforces global commitments to eradicate violence against women and girls, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging men and boys to join in challenging harmful gender norms that perpetuate this crisis.

In a rallying call to action, the SAMA Women’s Wing urges communities, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and civil society to unite in their ongoing crusade to dismantle GBV across the nation. “Ending gender-based violence cannot be confined to a seasonal campaign,” Dr Harbor insists. “It must be pursued with consistent dedication throughout the year. Every South African, whether by challenging normalised violence, supporting survivors, or promoting gender equality, has a role to play in breaking the cycle.”

Through their commitment to supporting survivors, driving public education, and advocating for systemic change, the SAMA Women’s Wing seeks to forge a future in which all South Africans can experience dignity, safety, and the full protection of their rights.

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