The Minister for Public Service and Administration, Ms Noxolo Kiviet, visited the Worcester Thuthuzela Care Centre to gain insight into how the centre provides critical care and support to victims of gender-based violence.
The Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) have been introduced as a critical part of South Africa’s anti-rape strategy, aiming to reduce secondary victimisation and build cases ready for successful prosecution.
The centre, which caters for victims of gender-based violence from Worcester and neighbouring towns such as De Doorns, Breede Valley, and Rawsonville, receives an average of 60-80 victims of gender-based violence per month.
The Minister was briefed on the centre’s operations and how it ensures victims of violence are equipped with the necessary support to help them recover.
Of the cases received, 50 to 60% are reported to the police, with a 92% conviction rate, demonstrating the critical role played by the TCCs in supporting the justice system’s work.
The Minister also conducted an unannounced visit to the Worcester and Zwelethemba Police Station where she was briefed on the stations’ challenges.
Minister Kiviet’s visit highlights the government’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting public service delivery.
The Minister said the Thuthuzela Care Center, police, and the broader public service play an essential role in supporting this administration’s service delivery priorities.
“As the country continues to face numerous challenges, the government’s commitment to improving public service delivery remains a priority,” the Minister said.
