Media Statement
Johannesburg:- Christian Artists Stand Together SA Welcomes President’s Declaration of GBV and Femicide as a National Disaster
In a powerful show of unity, Christian Artists Stand Together SA has voiced strong support for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement declaring Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide a national disaster in South Africa.
The organisation, known for using faith, music, and public platforms to speak out against injustice, says the President’s decision marks a long-awaited breakthrough in recognising the severe and worsening crisis faced by women, children, and vulnerable people across the country.
In a statement released this week, the group said the declaration “acknowledges the gravity of the crisis and signals a critical step towards addressing the systemic issues perpetuating violence.”
South Africa continues to grapple with staggering levels of abuse and femicide, with community groups, activists, and faith-based organisations consistently calling for urgent intervention. For many survivors, the President’s announcement offers a glimmer of hope that concrete action may finally follow years of promises.
Christian Artists Stand Together SA added that they pray this moment becomes a turning point, bringing hope to victims, inspiring justice reforms, and mobilising communities toward transformation.
“We stand united in promoting a culture of love, respect, and safety for all, and urge the government to follow through with concrete actions and support for survivors,” the statement reads.
The organisation emphasised that real change will require collaboration across government, civil society, religious groups, and communities. We should all now working toward a future, where South Africans can live, work, worship, and play without fear.
Across social media, early community reactions echoed the sentiment:
“It’s about time the crisis is recognised for what it is, a national disaster. Now we need to see action,” one resident commented.
“Our women and children suffer daily. We pray this is the beginning of real change,” said another.
“Faith communities standing up together sends a powerful message,” added a Cape Flats pastor.
With the declaration now made, the nation’s focus shifts to implementation, from stronger policing and prevention programmes to survivor support, trauma counselling, and education initiatives.
Christian Artists Stand Together SA says they remain committed to being a voice for the vulnerable and a guiding light of compassion as the country confronts this deep-rooted trauma.
Picture – Google.com
