Department of Justice and Constitutional Development reviews and develops laws and Bills to fight GBV

SAfm — South Africa is in the grip of two pandemics - COVID-19 and gender-based violence. This was the lament from President Cyril Ramaphosa during his virtual address to the nation on Women's Day. Ramaphosa said that the reality for millions of South African women is at odds with the promises contained in the constitution. President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Womens Day that opportunity exists to build a country where women's rights are not negotiable.This year's Women's month commemoration comes at a time when the country is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 lockdown has witnessed an increase in domestic violence and abuse, leaving women vulnerable and in danger. The impact of the pandemic on society has the potential to reverse progress made on women empowerment and eradicating poverty. We spoke to John Jeffery , the Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Service.