Free State Network on Violence Against Women

About Us

The Free State Network on Violence Against Women (FSNVAW) is a registered non-profit organisation established in 1996 with the Department of Social Development. Located in Bloemspruit, Free State Province, approximately 9km from Bloemfontein’s city centre, FSN has maintained a strong presence in the region for over two decades.

Since its inception, FSNVAW has been dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in the communities it serves. This mission was prompted by the alarming rise in reported GBV cases, which disproportionately affect women and children. In response, FSN designed strategic interventions to prevent the devastating effects of GBV. 

FSNVAW collaborates with local stakeholders to combat GBV within its operational areas. The organisation prioritises community engagement, raising awareness, and disseminating essential knowledge to empower communities to prevent and address GBV.

Key Focus Area

• Awareness Creation, Prevention, Training, and Advocacy: Educating communities on GBV, promoting prevention strategies, and advocating for policy changes at the provincial level due to its proximity to the office of the Premier in the province. 
• Partnership, Networking, and Intersectoral Collaborations: Fostering partnerships with local stakeholders, government agencies, and NGOs to leverage resources and expertise.
• Psycho-Social Support Services and Mental Health Interventions: Providing psychosocial and mental health support to survivors of GBV, promoting support, care, healing and recovery.

Impact and Achievements 

• The organisation has achieved significant milestones in empowering survivors of GBV through its FHR-sponsored Masibambisane GBV Programme. Since its pilot and subsequent launch, the organisation has made a tangible impact, with notable successes including:

  • A landmark case where FSNVAW supported a survivor who suffered repeated abuse at the hands of her husband. Following the organisation’s intervention, the husband was successfully prosecuted and sentenced to 5 years in prison, ultimately leading to the survivor’s divorce from her abusive partner.
  • This achievement and positive impact serve as a powerful motivator for the organisation, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to creating a safer, more just society for women and girls. 

  Beyond its role as a GBV service provider, the organisation has earned the trust of community members, who often turn to the organisation for support with various social issues. These may include unemployment, HIV/AIDS, and other challenges that, if left unaddressed, could potentially contribute to GBV.