As South Africa continues to grapple with the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), a coalition of activism groups has united to launch an innovative application, Gen G Engage.

The initiative is spearheaded by the Generation Gender programme, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers, Sonke Gender Justice, and Action Aid with an aim to combat gender-based violence and femicide, creating safer communities for all.

It is explained that this platform, introduced at the conclusion of Human Rights Month, aims to empower civil society organisations, young individuals, and communities to effectively navigate the justice system while providing crucial support to GBVF survivors across the nation.

It is revealed that the application comprises three fundamental components: Access to Justice, Access to Information, and the core Gen G Engage platform itself, all dedicated to fostering a stronger response to the ongoing GBVF crisis.

Speaking about the app, Rammolotsi Sothoane, Programmes Director at ACTIVATE Change Drivers, says, “South Africa's youth represents largely untapped potential to address pressing social challenges.”

“The Gen G Engage App will empower young people to share information and resources while raising awareness about the stark realities they confront in the context of GBVF.”

Sothoane also emphasised that the app would serve as a vital ally for youth, enabling them to access credible, evidence-based information regarding the justice system amidst the alarming bottlenecks that often render justice elusive.

Namuma Mulindi, Policy Development and Advocacy Specialist at Sonke Gender Justice, elaborated on the pressing need for this resource.

She pointed out how activists frequently receive requests related to GBV cases, yet many survivors encounter systemic challenges that hinder their pursuit of justice.

“We often hear from survivors seeking our support in navigating a convoluted criminal justice system,” Mulindi noted.

“The Gen G Engage app will empower users to track the progress of their cases, identify patterns, and hold accountable those responsible for enforcing justice.”

Among the app's significant features is a case monitoring tool designed for real-time tracking of criminal cases. Users can document key information, such as the South African Police Services (SAPS) CAS number, court details, and postponement records. It is also explained that this enables the coalition to assess the effectiveness of interventions like Thuthuzela Care Centres, which are pivotal in providing psychosocial support to survivors.

The coalition also aims to develop an evidence-based approach to ensure accountability across the criminal justice landscape. “This is not merely another app; it’s part of a civil society movement,” added Mulindi.

It is further detailed that the app's Access to Justice component will assist users from the Generation G Network, universities, and broader youth demographics in monitoring GBVF cases comprehensively. Meanwhile, the Access to Information section will serve as a knowledge reservoir, featuring guidelines on reporting procedures, GBVF policy papers, and toolkits for youth engagement in local power structures.

The Gen G Engage application marks a significant milestone in the civil society landscape, according to Sakhile Zungu, Country Director at Action Aid South Africa. “There are currently no specific GBVF digital platforms for civil society and young individuals focused on gender justice,” Zungu remarked. “This app strengthens the knowledge base and offers tools to effectively monitor cases from inception to resolution.”

This launch coincides with a troubling backdrop of gender-based violence cases, highlighted by the hashtag campaign #JusticeforCwecwe, which underscores the urgency of addressing the issue.

The shocking rape of a seven-year-old girl has reignited public outrage and prompted thousands to rally in the streets demanding justice.

Various activist groups and political organisations, including Sisonke Gender Justice, have called for an urgent and decisive response, particularly focusing on the rising number of child sexual assault cases in South Africa.

Saturday Star

anita.nkonki@inl.co.za