By Patience Gondo
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has pledged increased support for organisations providing social protection services in Beitbridge, saying community leaders must do more to safeguard vulnerable groups.
He made the commitment on Sunday December 7, during a Christmas luncheon for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) at Mudi wa Pfulufhelo Safe Haven, a facility that has become a lifeline for thousands of abuse survivors in the border town.
Founded in February 2019 by Mr and Mrs Gora, the safe haven was established after the couple identified a critical gap in the handling of SGBV cases.
Since opening its doors, the centre has assisted 7 812 survivors, offering temporary shelter, psychosocial support, meals, life-skills training, income-generation training and service referrals. It is run by four permanent volunteer staff members supported by student interns.
Nguluvhe said supporting such facilities was not optional but a responsibility for leadership.
“It is critical for community leaders to stand with vulnerable communities,” he said.
The event drew stakeholders from several government departments, the Beitbridge Municipality and the District Development Coordinator’s office, underscoring the growing push for multi-sectoral approaches to tackling gender-based violence.
Nguluvhe, who is also the Beitbridge East legislator, has in recent years positioned himself as an advocate for social welfare and community development in the border district. His interventions have included support for child protection initiatives, mobilisation of resources for vulnerable households, and backing programmes aimed at strengthening local social services.
His renewed commitment at the safe haven aligns with his ongoing emphasis on improving community safety netsparticularly for women and children at risk of abuse.
Sunday’ s luncheon provided survivors with a rare moment of solidarity and healing, allowing them to share experiences in a safe environment while receiving emotional support. Stakeholders said the minister’s pledge signalled continued government involvement in addressing SGBV, a persistent problem in border communities.
The event ended with a message of unity, collaboration and renewed hope for the survivors who rely on the safe haven’s services for protection and recovery.