JHC’s contribution to the fight against gender-based violence in South Africa

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a crisis that many countries around the world have been grappling with for years. However, in recent times, this issue has intensified by alarming rates in South Africa.

The gender-based violence statistics for 2020 indicate an increase of violence in South Africa, particularly against women, children and members of the LGBTQ+ communities. According to this article, gender-based violence in South Africa is also a societal matter that requires a collaborative effort to combat.

Communities need to get involved in the fight against gender-based violence. We’re one of the many real estate agents in Johannesburg that always strive to do our part in positively impacting our communities. If you read on below, you’ll learn more about how we contribute to the fight against GBV.

What is gender-based violence?

Gender-based violence refers to violence that is directed at an individual based on their gender. And, while all genders experience GBV, SA stats show that women, children and LGBTQ+ members experience it more than cis heterosexual men.

There are different types of gender-based violence, including verbal, emotional, physical, sexual, structural and financial. To understand the causes of GBV, read this document which explains gender dynamics in South Africa. The document, published by StatsSA, provides an overview of the prevalence of crimes against women in the country and the conditions that exacerbate GBV, leading to femicide.

What JHC does to help fight against GBV

We’re more than a property company that provides affordable accommodation in Johannesburg. We also understand that it is our duty to help, not only our tenants but also the people in communities where our properties are located. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Lutheran Outreach Foundation to drive awareness projects such as the Men’s Forum.

The Lutheran Outreach Foundation facilitates the Men’s Forum workshops. These are targeted at sharing information and engaging men and women on GBV-related topics such as what it looks like, how it affects homes and communities as well as how to support victims of gender-based violence. The foundation is a non-profit organisation that is passionate about building a better tomorrow. They also provide gender-based violence counselling and therapy support for the tenants who need it.

Final thoughts

Gender-based violence in South Africa needs urgent solutions from a grassroots level. Everyone in the community has a significant role to play in the quest to eliminate this crisis. At the Johannesburg Housing Company, we do what we can to contribute to the fight against GBV. We work with people who have more expertise on this subject to ensure that we come up with sound and effective solutions to help our tenants and our communities.