On the 5th August 2025, The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) hosted a stakeholder engagement session at Standerton Hospital, focused on the establishment of a Thuthuzela Care Centre under the slogan “Turning Victims into Survivors”. The meeting brought together various national government departments, including the Lekwa Local Municipality, in a joint effort to develop a coordinated response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Driven by high rise in gender-based violence cases in the Lekwa area, the NPA has taken the lead in mobilising support and resources to establish the care centre, which will offer holistic services to victims of SGBV
During the meeting, Lekwa’s MMC for Community Services and Safety, Councillor Mapaseka Molaba, expressed strong support for the initiative. “As we begin Women’s Month, I stand in full support of the NPA’s efforts to establish this crucial centre. Every day, women, children and the LGBTQ+ community suffer the impact of gender-based violence. It’s important to remember that men too, should feel empowered to report such cases,” she said.
Cllr. Molaba emphasised, “If it were up to me, this facility would be operational immediately. However, I understand that due process must be followed. I am hopeful that these processes are carried out smoothly for the benefit of our community.”