South Africa has one of highest rates of Gender Based Violence in the world. Though the accurate statistics are difficult to determine because these crimes are under-reported (mainly because of the low conviction rate of sexual crimes) Statistics South Africa released a report on the issue in 2016 showing that 1 in every 5 women over 18 has experienced physical abuse.
In an effort to curb the under-reporting of gender based violence, the People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) organisation has launched an important anti Gender-based Violence (GBV) app to help women fight abuse by providing them with emergency services as and when they need it. The organisation’s executive director Nonhlanhla Mokwena tells us about this initiative.
1. POWA wanted an innovative way to ensure that abuse victims receive the help they need. Our shelters are experiencing volumes of women looking for accommodation and assistance because they know we can offer them that. Unfortunately, some women remain in abusive relationships because they don’t know about us or where to find help. What these women do have are smartphones. The GBV was designed to provide them with easily accessible emergency services at the click of a button. The app is free on Android and Apple smartphones.
2. Assistance is provided based on the information given in the app. After downloading it, you are required to fill in basic information and three emergency numbers that can be called should you be unreachable.
3. The app is linked to the Department of Social Development’s Gender-based Violence Command Centre. At the click of a button, the 24-hour command centre can establish your location and provide assistance such as emergency services and the police. You can also send distress messages, report categorised GBV-related crimes, find local help centres and track reported incidents.
4. As POWA, we are open to feedback and encourage you to share your experience. This will assist us with improving the app in the future.
To find out more info visit the POWA website now.
