Families South Africa: Pietermaritzburg (FAMSA PMB)

About Us

Families South Africa: Pietermaritzburg (FAMSA PMB) is a community–based not-for-profit organisation located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Founded in the 1960s, it emerged in response to a need identified by local church organisations for marriage guidance services. FAMSA has since involved and has added the component of raising human rights awareness, and community-based services aimed at strengthening family dynamics and combating social issues. With a core focus on promoting gender equality, family health, and support for victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence (GBV), FAMSA PMB plays a pivotal role in enhancing human rights and accountability in the community. 

Key Focus Area

• Gender-Based Violence (GBV): FAMSA PMB offers counselling, support, and awareness programmes to combat GBV, empowering individuals and communities to address this critical issue. 
• Community Empowerment and Awareness: Through educational campaigns, group work, and dialogues, FAMSA PMB seeks to enhance the capacity of community members to respond to social challenges and build resilience. 
• Family Strengthening and Counselling: Providing therapeutic support to families and individuals to resolve interpersonal conflicts, enhance relationships, and promote well-being. 
• Training and Capacity Building: Training local stakeholders, including social workers and community members, to ensure effective intervention in cases of domestic and gender-based violence.

Impact and Achievements 

FAMSA PMB has successfully reached over 900 beneficiaries through its counselling services and awareness campaigns across various communities in the uMgungundlovu District. Notable achievements include:

• Empowering local community members including GBV monitors to assist victims of GBV, providing them with essential resources while awaiting professional intervention, care and support.
• Expanding its network of stakeholders through the Masibambisane project, which facilitated increased collaboration and referral systems in the region.
• Reaching more than 500 children through life skills programmes, delivered by trained community members with guidance from social workers.
• Significant progress in engaging men in seeking help for GBV, traditionally a marginalised group in such interventions.