Our efforts to help eradicate the scourge of gender-based violence

GBV and child abuse remain pervasive challenges in South Africa. In response, the government continues to intensify its efforts to combat gender based violence and femicide (GBVF) through a comprehensive national strategy aimed at addressing all forms of violence and abuse against women and children. Since the launch of the GBVF Strategic Plan in 2020, several new interventions have been implemented.

At Implats, we recognise our collective responsibility to contribute to the prevention and response to GBV, as well as to harassment, bullying and victimisation (HBV). This commitment is deeply embedded in our core values, our people strategy, and our social performance framework.

Implats and its subsidiaries have consistently demonstrated their commitment to addressing GBV through a range of impactful initiatives, including:

• A R10 million contribution to the GBV Fund during its establishment phase, along with an additional R1 million pledged through the Minerals Council GBV Partnership to support Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs)
• Self-defence training programmes for female employees
• Implementation and rollout of a Harassment and GBV (HBV) Policy, supported by training and a dedicated HBV/GBV helpline
• Ongoing internal and external GBV awareness campaigns
• Community-based learner and sports events to raise awareness of GBV
• Collaboration with local police services to strengthen response mechanisms
• Distribution of care packs and active employee volunteerism
• Hosting of ‘Colourful Bandana Doek Days’ to symbolise solidarity and raise awareness.

A key ongoing initiative under the Minerals Council GBV Partnership is support for Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs), including a R1 million pledge to assist the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in distributing awareness materials across 66 centres nationwide. TCCs are one-stop facilities designed to reduce secondary victimisation, improve conviction rates, and shorten the time required to finalise GBV cases.

Over the past year, we have continued our support for TCCs by raising awareness and providing direct aid to the Vosloorus TCC. This support included the donation of blankets, soft toys, and care packs for victims, as well as self-defence training facilitated by INPowered.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to eradicating gender-based violence and femicide. Looking ahead, we aim to deepen our partnerships and support the establishment of additional Thuthuzela Care Centres to expand access to survivor-centred services.