New Thuthuzela Care Center opened in Stellenbosch

Western Cape Minister of Social Development Sharna Fernandez recently chaired the official opening of the Thuthuzela Care Center (TCC) in Stellenbosch.

The opening ceremony was attended by leading officials, including Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development John Jeffery and lawyer Shamila Batohi, National Director of Public Prosecutions.

Thuthuzela Care Centers (TCCs) are known as one-stop facilities that provide comprehensive support to victims of GBV. These centers are run by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and serve as a safe haven where victims can access essential services and support.

The Western Cape Department of Social Development is a key partner in this initiative, working with the Department of Health and Wellness, the Department of Justice and Correctional Services, the South African Police Service, NGOs and the commercial sector.

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To ensure 24-hour psychological support, the department is sponsoring Stellacare, an NGO, to provide essential services at the Stellenbosch TCC. This support includes counseling and psychological interventions that are critical to survivors’ well-being and recovery.

Minister Fernandez spoke on the importance of collaboration in providing comprehensive care to GBV survivors.

“This facility will serve as a lifeline for many victims and survivors of gender-based violence. It is imperative that we maintain strong partnerships to ensure no one who needs support is overlooked,” she said.

The name ‘Thuthuzela’ – a Xhosa word meaning ‘comfort’ – reflects the centre’s mission to comfort and assist people affected by violence, creating an environment of support and healing.

Since 2019, Thuthuzela Care Centers and DSD-supported GBV shelters in the Western Cape have served more than 21,000 people annually with psychosocial support.

With the addition of the Stellenbosch TCC, the province now has nine operational Thuthuzela centres, further expanding access to critical services for those affected by GBV.

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Image: @NPA_Prosecutes / X