ZAThe article argues that South Africa's classification of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster has not been matched by adequate healthcare investment, thereby failing to protect women. It highlights the critical role of health facilities in identifying and responding to GBVF, emphasizing that women, who constitute nearly 90% of nurses and 95% of early childhood development (ECD) practitioners, are essential to the healthcare system. The piece notes that despite GBVF being declared a national disaster in 2025, the 2026 budget did not include new dedicated funding. It stresses that public healthcare is vital for empowering women, as they not only rely on the system for care but also form the backbone of the workforce. The article calls for increased investment in healthcare to ensure women's safety, improve their living conditions, and enable them to provide effective support to survivors.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the lack of healthcare investment as a failure to empower women and uphold their rights, using emotionally charged language such as 'fails women' and 'harshest socioeconomic conditions.' It emphasizes the systemic neglect of women's needs and positions healthcare investment as a '
