Today marks the beginning of the 2025 International 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign. As South Africa continues to grapple with the persistent crisis of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), TAPSOSA is proud to join national efforts to raise awareness, amplify the voices of survivors, and strengthen action across the private security sector.
This year, we reaffirm our commitment to using our platforms, expertise, and national footprint to support safer communities and advocate for accountability.

Understanding the GBVF Crisis

GBVF remains one of the most urgent human rights violations in South Africa. Every day, women, children, and vulnerable groups face forms of violence that threaten not only their safety but their dignity, wellbeing, and ability to fully participate in society.

Key challenges include:

  • High rates of sexual violence and femicide.
  • Under-reporting due to fear, stigma, and lack of support.
  • Slow response times and inconsistent case handling.
  • Limited access to psychosocial services in many communities.

Private security plays a vital role as first responders, protectors of public and private spaces, and bridge-builders between communities and law enforcement.

TAPSOSA’s Commitment to the Fight Against GBVF

As an association representing more than 2,000 private security enterprises nationwide, TAPSOSA recognises its responsibility in supporting victims, strengthening awareness, and ensuring that every security officer is equipped to act lawfully, compassionately, and effectively.

TAPSOSA commits to:

  • Promoting GBVF awareness and education across the industry.
  • Supporting skills training that empowers officers to intervene safely and appropriately.
  • Encouraging sector-wide compliance with ethical and professional conduct standards.
  • Advocating for improved collaboration between private security, SAPS, and community structures.
  • Amplifying the voices of survivors and organisations working on the front lines.

This campaign is a call to action — for the industry, for individuals, and for society.

What Members Can Expect Over the Next 16 Days

Between 25 November and 10 December, TAPSOSA will roll out a full digital and community-driven campaign across all platforms.

Members can look forward to:
✔ Daily Social Media Posts
Covering awareness messages, survivor support information, emergency numbers, industry responsibilities, and key facts about GBVF.
✔ Resource Packs
Including downloadable posters, risk-awareness guides, and reporting information for officers and employers.
✔ Training Highlights
Spotlights on GBVF-related training, skills development, and compliance frameworks applicable to private security personnel.
✔ Conversations & Engagement
Through our social platforms, LinkedIn articles, and short educational videos.
✔ Advocacy Messaging
Promoting ethical conduct, accountability, and fair reporting in the security sector.
Together, these tools will help members strengthen responses, raise awareness, and contribute to safer environments everywhere we operate.

Call to Action: Report GBVF & Support Survivors
Every member of the private security sector has a role to play.

➡ Report GBVF:
If you witness or suspect abuse, contact:
SAPS Emergency Line: 10111
GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428
USSD “Please Call Me” Line: *120*7867#
➡ Support Survivors:
Listen, believe, and refer victims to appropriate services. No survivor should face violence alone.
➡ Be a Voice:
Share TAPSOSA’s daily posts, spread awareness, and help build a culture of protection and accountability.

The fight against GBVF requires all of us — individuals, organisations, and entire sectors — to stand united.
TAPSOSA invites every member to be part of this campaign with purpose, compassion, and determination.
Together, we can help stop the violence and build a safer South Africa.