Inside Stellenbosch’s Fight Against GBV

Loading player...
In this powerful episode, hosts Lesedi Mnisi and Jacolette Kloppers are joined by Carol van Zyl, Director of the Stellenbosch GBV Hub, and Dr Nontobeko Dyakopu, Lead Doctor at the Thuthuzela Care Centre in Ida’s Valley, Stellenbosch.

Carol and Dr Nontobeko take listeners inside the Stellenbosch GBV Centre – a 24/7 centre offering emergency medical care, trauma counselling, training, awareness programs, legal support, and safe accommodation for victims of gender-based violence. Since opening in February 2024, the centre has already supported over 500 victims from more than 30 residential areas – many of whom would not have had access to such services elsewhere.

The facility in Botmashoogte, Ida’s Valley consists of two double-story buildings that house:

· The Stellenbosch Thuthuzela Care Centre;
· Ring for Peace Cape Trust clinical services, providing access to emergency care and temporary accommodation;
· The Ring for Peace Cape Trust Operational Hub, responsible for collaboration among all the stakeholders; and
· INSPIRE (Initiative for Non-violence, Support, Prevention, Intervention), a GBV training facility managed by Stellenbosch University.

The conversation explores what GBV looks like in Stellenbosch and the surrounding areas, why many survivors still fear reporting, and what steps are being taken to reduce secondary trauma through a more humane, victim-centred approach. Dr Nontobeko also shares her team’s day-to-day experiences on the clinical frontline – how they cope with the emotional impact of their work, and why solidarity and teamwork are essential.

The guests also explain how students and community members can reach out to the Stellenbosch GBV Centre, all the contact details and available services, and how to invite the GBV Centre for outreach and education sessions.

If you or someone you know needs help, the Stellenbosch GBV Centre is open and ready to support you. Confidentiality is always respected.
20 May 2025 English South Africa News · Society & Culture

Other recent episodes

Grad Week 2025 | Lesedi Mnisi — Law, Resilience, and the Power of Family

In this Grad Week 2025 episode, we sit down with Lesedi Mnisi, who graduated that very morning with her LLB (Bachelor of Laws) — a milestone achieved through discipline, determination, and unwavering resilience. Joined in studio by her mom, Lesego Mnisi, and her sister, Neo Mnisi, Lesedi reflects on the…
14 Jan 29 min

Grad Week 2025 | Haajir September — Setbacks Are Detours, Not Dead Ends

In this Grad Week 2025 episode, we sit down with Haajir September, who graduated with her BEd in Foundation Phase — a journey defined by resilience, faith, second chances, and the powerful bond between a mother and daughter. Raised on the Cape Flats by her single mother, Zubaida, Haajir learned…
12 Jan 37 min