Gender-based violence shelters have warned that an increase in value-added tax (VAT) could have a devastating impact on the survivors of abuse.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is set to
deliver the revised budget on Wednesday.
It was postponed in February, due to a dispute over the proposal to
raise VAT from 15% to 17%.
The National Shelter Movement of South Africa (NSMSA)
says the VAT hike would further strain already underfunded shelters, forcing
them to turn away people in desperate need of safety.
PICTURE: Facebook - NSMSASpeaking on Bush Radio’s Morning Cruise
programme on Tuesday, the movement’s Greer Schoeman, said instead of increasing
support, government has steadily cut funding, leaving shelters overwhelmed and
struggling to accommodate the growing number of victims seeking refuge.
"Already struggling with inadequate and
inconsistent funding, skyrocketing costs, and delayed government disbursements,
shelters fear they may be forced to scale back essential services or even turn
away desperate survivors with nowhere else to go.
“When we request funding, it is never for
excess but only to meet the urgent needs of survivors who rely on us for
safety, healing, and a chance to rebuild their lives. Yet, shelters face
chronic underfunding and delayed government payments, which deepen the
financial strain and create uncertainty," said Schoeman.
Shelters say the combination of a VAT increase,
rising costs, and delayed government disbursements could ultimately sabotage
survivors’ rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The NSMSA is calling on the government to
reconsider the proposal and provide greater financial support to GBV shelters
instead of imposing further economic strain on essential services.
Done By: Elona Sibunzi
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