The National Shelter Movement of South Africa has welcomed the appointment of Dina Pule as the new Minister of Social Development, while urging the department to prioritise ethical leadership, stable governance and sustainable funding for shelters supporting survivors of gender-based violence.
The organisation, which represents more than 100 shelters across all nine provinces, stated that women and children fleeing abuse cannot afford interruptions to critical support services.
Spokesperson Greer Schoeman said the sector remains committed to working closely with government to strengthen protection services for vulnerable communities.
“We therefore look forward to engaging constructively with the minister and the department on the urgent challenges facing the shelter sector,” Schoeman said.
She added that the movement has consistently called for “meaningful political engagement, sustainable funding and stronger partnerships” to ensure that shelters can continue to provide essential services.
The organisation believes predictable funding and closer collaboration between government and civil society are vital to improving support for survivors of gender-based violence.
The National Shelter Movement said it hopes the new minister’s appointment will usher in a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges facing the shelter sector and ensuring that those escaping violence continue to receive the protection, care and support they need.
VOC News
Photo: X/ @The_DSD
