By Neelam Rahim

New research indicates that the cost of gender-based violence in South Africa could be higher than the estimated R36 billion. The figure was calculated as part of a research project by the Shared Value Africa Initiative and the University of Johannesburg, in collaboration with Mid Sweden University and supported by KPMG. A report is tallying the cost of gender-based violence estimated that South Africa lost more than R36 billion in 2019 alone.

However, activists believe the actual cost of GBV could exceed this amount.

Radio Islam International discusses with the Director of the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children, Bernadine Bachar.

According to Bernadine, the reason behind saying it exceeds R36 billion includes the societal costs of gender-based violence and the associated and indirect costs.

She says a look needs to be given at societal costs and the work that must be done to break the intergenerational cycle of abuse.

Bernadine also indicates that looking at all the indirect costs will increase the figure.

The initial figure of R36 billion comprises the judicial costs of prosecuting crimes around gender-based violence and investigating it. Health care is primarily highlighted, added Bernadine.

“The only way we will get to grips with GBV is if we strengthen our community-based responses to GBV.”

Bernadine tells Radio Islam that there is now a strategic plan on GBV and femicide. A very well-thought-out document which took a lot of input from a service provider, stakeholders and community leaders. The project itself is excellent, but it is facing difficulty in terms of the plan not being adequately resourced and budgeted for.

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam’s podcast below.