The South African Women Lawyers Association (SAWLA) has committed to provide free legal help to victims of gender-based violence (GBV) who cannot afford legal services. They also provide criminal defence, divorce and domestic violence services and sources its expertise according to its members’ needs.
The non-profit organisation is made up of female lawyers who assist women and girls who are in need of legal services. “We have 250 members, some of whom are self-employed as attorneys or advocates. Others are employed by government, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and corporate companies. Others are magistrates, prosecutors and law students,” said Mpho Kgabi, Secretary General of SAWLA.
She highlighted that SAWLA is actively participating in the National Strategic Plan on GBV and supports initiatives that seek to curb GBV.“We are making sure that all women who are subjected to GBV and cannot afford lawyers are assisted by SAWLA members for free,” said Kgabi.
The organisation is also on a mission to transform the legal profession, empower female lawyers and give a voice to all women. “SAWLA believes that the South African society is still steeped in patriarchal attitudes that continue to blame victims and survivors of GBV instead of confronting the perpetrators,” she added.
To address this challenge, Kgabi said the organisation is committed to advancing human rights and equal justice for all, and is active in safeguarding women’s and girls’ rights to eradicate GBV and build a better country.
Supported by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, the SAWLA also works closely with SOEs like the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration; Legal Aid South Africa; Black Lawyers Association; National Association of Democratic Lawyers; and Women of South Africa.
