Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi leads GBVF Imbizo at Nyandeni

By Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

Nyandeni Community members came in greater numbers to the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Imbizo held at Nyandeni Great Palace.  Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi, hosted this GBVF Imbizo in partnership with Her Majesty Queen Ndamase of the Amapondo ase Nyandeni Kingdom in the Eastern Cape.

This Imbizo was held under the theme "Empowered Women, Empower Nations: Her Royal Highness Queen Ndamase Championing Safe and Inclusive Communities". Her Majesty Queen Ndamase highlighted that the area has a problem of GBVF especially with school learners. "Learners come out of schools late and that makes them a target, we also need to look at that" she said.

Her Majesty further made an appeal to the Department of Justice to raise awareness on services offered by the Department such as Master's Services, Maintenance and others.

Community members had an opportunity to raise their issues. "Our children are targeted from schools and become victims of sexual violence," said a community a member. Another community member emphasised that the area also has a problem of drugs which may also be a contributing factor to GBFV. 

Minister of DOJ&CD Mmamoloko Kubayi made a call to community members to work together with government to fight the scourge of GBVF. "We need to join hands and work together" she said.

She explained various efforts by government to promote and protect the rights of sexual violence victims. "Sexual Offences Courts are dedicated specialized courtrooms designed to handle sexual abuse and rape cases with specialized prosecutors, private testifying rooms, and victim-cantered support "said Minister Kubayi.

She made a plea to community members to report sexual violence immediately to the law enforcement agencies. "Let's ensure that we report a sexual offence to the police" she said. Minister also highlighted that teachers have an obligation to report Statutory Rape. 

Community members also requested a follow up Imbizo for men in the area.

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Deputy Minister delivers an address at Symposium on Gender Inequality and anti-Corruption

By Dudu Diraditsile

"Corruption is not gender-neutral, because corruption does not take place in a society neutral environment. It takes place within existing structures of economic, political, and social power. Where those structures are characterises by significant gender inequality, corruption may reproduce or deepen that inequality," said Deputy Minister Andries Nel.

Deputy Minister Nel was delivering an address at the Symposium on Gender Inequality and Anti-Corruption at Stellenbosch University, The Symposium took place under the theme, "Advancing Gender-Responsive Governance, Accountability and Institutional Reform."

Deputy Minister Nel emphasised that there is a need to examine the mechanisms through which corruption, inequality and institutional power interact, and determine what government, institutions and society should do about them.

"If access to a public service becomes dependent upon bribe, political connection, personal relationship or other improper consideration, a formally equal system may produce highly unequal outcomes. Those with resources may pay. Those with connections may circumvent the problem. Those without either may simply be excluded," he said.

Also attending the Symposium was Professor Thuli Madonsela, Director of the Centre for Social Justice in the Faculty of Law at Stellenbosch University, Mr Leonard Lekgetho, Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), Former Minister in the Presidency Mr Jay Naidoo, and Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, Public Protector of South Africa.

Professor Thuli Madonsela challenged attendees to reflect on two key questions: Do women do corruption differently and do women have an influence in combating corruption? She further elaborated on the anatomy of corruption, and its impacts.

"When resources are diverted, people who loses out the majority are those who do not have money and the majority of those would be women who exist at the intersection of multiple forms of inequality," she said.

"South Africa's anti-corruption statute does not require a gratification to have a monetary value, meaning sexual corruption is arguably corruption under existing law," said Adv. Kholeka Gcaleka calling on sexual extortion to be criminalized.

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Justice Department Empowers Khayelitsha Women

By Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

Women from Khayelitsha in Cape Town filled the Thusong Centre to capacity as they responded to the Department's call in responding to persistent challenges related to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in the area.

As part of Women's month, the Department recently hosted a Women Empowerment Seminar in response the scourge of GBVF in the area under the theme, "A Call to Accelerate Women's Empowerment in South Africa," this seminar brought together women and key stakeholders.

A Member of the Western Cape Provincial Legislature: Honorable Khalid Sayed, welcomed all women in attendance, highlighting that Khayelitsha has challenges and leaders must unite to find solution and built a better community.

Echoing similar sentiment, Department's Acting Director General Ms Kalayvani Pillay also calling on both government and civil society to work together. "No single department or civil society can stop Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. We need to work together to fight this scourge," she said, further explaining that by empowering women on Khayelitsha, more families will then be empowered through these women.

Some of the stakeholders' present include national and provincial departments, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), the South African Women Lawyers Association (SAWLA) and MOSAIC, a non-governmental-organisation (NGO) working to end GBV and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) across Africa. Acting CGE Chairperson, Mr. Mfundo Nomvungo, explained that South Africa has a higher rate of GBVF whilst women are mostly the victims. He further highlighted that these victims know the perpetrators.

Delivering the keynote address was Honourable Ms Nomi Nkondlo: Member of the Western Cape Provincial Legislature who encouraged women to take a stand and speak up. "Let us take our rightful place as women and speak up in order to build our communities," she said.

Community members also had opportunity to raise their concerns which included illegal evictions of the elderly, poor handling of these cases by the local Magistrate's Court. The Department made a commitment to follow up on these issues. 

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DOJ&CD joins UNISA to empower women

By Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

As part of commemorating Women's Month, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) with the University of South Africa Institute for Social and Health Sciences (ISHS) in collaboration with Imbumbe YaBafazi hosted Women's Month event.

This event held at Lenasia targeted women from Lenasia and surrounding areas. This event provided a sacred space for women where they shared their personal experiences, challenges in their families or society.

The Programme Director for the day was Ms Vuyiswa Mhlongo who is the Founder of Imbumbe Yabafazi which is community outreach unit aimed at addressing social and family issues through the empowerment of women. "As women we need to protect and care for each other," said Ms Mhlongo.

Representing the DOJ&CD was Ms Tshidi Tabane from Promotion of the Rights of Vulnerable Groups Unit. She explained different types of bullying and its legal consequences and cautioned against social media bullying. "We need to be very careful of Social Media Bullying and teach our children of the consequences," she cautioned.

Also, from the DOJ&CD was Advocate Mulalo Netshisaulu who encouraged women to report cases of Gender-Based Violence. "We have a responsibility to report Gender-Based Violence," he said. He further explained that victims of Domestic Violence may approach any nearest Magistrate Court for the application of a Domestic Violence Protection Order.

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Celebrating Women's Month: Empowered Women, Empower Nations

By Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

This year we commemorate Women's Month under the theme "Empowered Women, Empower Nations" Justice Today met with Meet Mrs. Motshabi Setlhako-Maliehe (50), who is serving as Director: Legal Services at the DOJ&CD North West Provincial Office.

Can you briefly share with our readers your background, where did you grow up and your education?

I was born at Rooijantjiesfontein, commonly known as GA-Maloka.  We Moved to Gannalaagte after my grandparents were forcefully removed from Ga Maloka.

I attended Primary at Logaga Primary School, secondary at Molete Middle School then proceeded to Bakolobeng High School to do my standard 8 which is known as (Grade 10) now.

 I Joined my parents in Mafikeng in 1991 and attended std 9 and 10(Grade 11 and 12) at Lapolagang High School in Mafikeng.  I Completed my B Proc Degree and graduated in at UNIBO in 1998.

Today you serve as a Director Legal Administration, can you take us through your career path and describe how it led you to the role you serve?

I was admitted as an Attorney of the High Court in 2001.  

In the year 2002- 2006 I served as the Law Researcher of the Judge President Mogoeng at Mmabatho High Court division currently known as the North West High Court In the year 2006 until 2011 I was appointed as a Registrar of the High Court in the same Division,

I was appointed at the Director Legal Service on the 1st of May 2013 until to date.

Since resuming your duties as the Director Legal Administration, what has been your approach to this role?

My Approach has been to observe, learn by listening to others irrespective of position or title.

I believe in improving on something rather than doing away with the old unless the old is totally irrelevant and out of time.    

Can you share with us some of your daily responsibilities?

Monitors the implementation of various legislations intended to protect vulnerable group e.g. Sexual Offences, Domestic Violence, Older Persons, Maintenance and Child Justice and Chairs different forums to ensure accountability  

Build stakeholder relation to ensure improved services and access to justice

Support Courts with training to ensure efficiency on Quasi-Judicial

Responsible for Public education and awareness on departmental services.

What are some of the major challenges you have faced in your current role?

Had to prove myself over the years as my appointment was seen as not deserving because I was a up against men.

What would you say motivates you to ensure access to justice for all and bringing hope to a fair justice system? 

Helping and resolving problems. I regard my responsibilities as a calling than just working. Most of the complainants who were frustrated about their Maintenance matters and most of the time displayed what one will term rude behavior, ends up reminding me that I should not give up on them as this is my calling not just work.

What would you say is your greatest strength, and how would you use this to lead as the Director of Legal Administration?

Passionate, Responsive and Flexible.

Legal Directorate is responsible mainly for the Vulnerable as a result sometimes is difficult to separate empathy and sympathy but passion drives me and enables me to lead by example. I prefer servant leadership style though I use other styles to ensure positive results.

Tell us about your family life, how do you balance family and your professional roles?

My family is close knit of 6 including my grandson. The family believes in Prayer and share self-created fun moments wherever we are. We believe in making things happen. My Family is my great support and my cheer leaders. They are always at the front screaming "Mom you got this".    

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Law Career Day - The Young Attorney Inspiring UKZN's Next Generation of Lawyers

By Mandla Mathebula

Persevering. This is one word that describes 23-year-old Velenkosini Mthobisi Thwala from Manguzi Area, kwaNgwanase, in KwaZulu-Natal.

Velenkosi is one of the rising legal minds quietly building a reputation in the legal sector at a young age. He is also one of the University of KwaZulu-Natal graduates who returned for this year's Career Day for Law Students, to help guide students building careers in the legal field.

"I am participating in this programme to encourage and motivate students who aspire to pursue careers in law," says Velenkosini. "By sharing my own journey, I hope to provide practical guidance on securing articles of clerkship, preparing for the legal profession, and navigating the transition from student to Candidate Attorney."

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) partnered with the University of KwaZulu-Natal to host a Career Day for law students recently. The event formed part of the Department's Nelson Mandela Month commemorative activities, building on various other engagements with law students held at universities across the country.

"Returning to the University of KwaZulu-Natal, this time not as a student but as a guest speaker representing Mela Malinga Attorneys Inc., was a proud milestone in my journey. It reminded me of how far I have come and reinforced my commitment to inspiring the next generation of legal professionals. My aim is to encourage and motivate students who aspire to pursue careers in law," said Velenkosini, who steadfastly overcame many obstacles to complete his LLB in 2024.

He has also managed to commence his articles at Mela Malinga Attorneys in 2025, and is already working towards completing his board examinations. Velenkosini is well on course towards admission as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa — his immediate goal.

"My advice to law students is simple: believe in yourself, trust the process, and never give up on your dream. Studying law is not easy. Success does not come from intelligence alone; it comes from consistency, perseverance, and a willingness to learn every day," Velenkosini counselled.

Alongside this exemplary young achiever, the Department brought together representatives from key institutions within the legal fraternity, including the Legal Practice Council, the National Prosecuting Authority, the South African Women Lawyers Association, private law firms, and other entities, to engage students on the various career opportunities they can explore.

In his presentation, Mr Makubela Mokulubete of the Legislative Development Branch of the DOJ&CD took attending law students through the vital work of drafting key legislation, offering valuable insights into the legislative process and what they can expect as future legal professionals.

Judge Siphokazi Jikela SC of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court also encouraged students to invest time in their craft and not be deterred.

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Siviwe Nomapelana: Striving for excellence in Public Service

By Junior Kotu

Armed with a Bachelor of Administration (Public Affairs) Degree and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Psychology, Ms. Siviwe Nomapelana, credits dedication, patience, and plenty of hard work for the smooth processing of payments at the Eastern Cape Provincial Office where she works as a State Accountant in the Salary section.

Ms. Nomapelana's responsibilities include ensuring that all payments received from the Personnel Division are properly checked and processed on the system within the required timeframes.

"These payments include salaries, Magistrates' transport claims, casual interpreter claims, overtime payments, leave gratuities and other salary-related payments. These are very important because delays can directly affect employees and, ultimately, service delivery," she said.

Despite working in Finance, Ms. Nomapelana believes communication is important in her line of work. In instances where a payment cannot be processed on time, she believes it is equally important to communicate clearly with the affected officials, explain the reason for the delay, apologise where necessary and provide a solution or way forward.

However just like any other job, hers comes with its own challenges. She describes system failures as one of the most common and significant obstacles in her work. "There are times when system-related problems make it difficult or even impossible for us to process payments on time and because we serve a large province with a high volume of transactions, even a relatively short system interruption can result in a significant backlog," she adds.

Being a strong and resilient woman that she is, Ms. Nomapelana is thankful for her dedication, patience, and hard work to overcome any complication in her work. "I am highly committed to what I do, and I always strive to achieve the best possible results. When I take responsibility for something, I want to see it succeed. Patience is particularly important in Finance Administration because the role involves working with different people, managing expectations and sometimes dealing with challenging situations. Being patient and calm allows me to listen, understand problems and find appropriate solutions," she continued.

Because she understands that efficient financial administration contributes to the overall functioning of the justice system, Ms. Nomapelana is motivated knowing that the work she does contributes to something much bigger than simply processing payments. "The payments we process support the officials who are at the forefront of delivering justice to the people of our country."

Given how immersed and committed she is to her work, one may mistakenly think Ms. Nomapelana's sole focus is on her professional life. However, she is a mother to two beautiful children, uMhlomhle, who is 15 and 12-year-old Mida.

"Balancing my professional and family life requires discipline, organisation, and understanding of my priorities. I work hard to be a dedicated employee while also being present and supportive as a mother. I also make time for exercise and taking care of myself because I believe personal wellness helps me perform better both professionally and as a parent.

I take great pride in my role and continuously strive for excellence. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is being able to assist clients and ensure that they leave my desk feeling satisfied, respected and confident that they have received the service they deserve," she concludes.

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Justice Department hosts the Access to Justice Week campaign

By Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

In a quest to ensure that justice is accessible to all, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) hosted the 2026 Access to Justice Week Campaign from the 11-14 August 2026.

Access to Justice Week Campaign is a community service initiative aimed at offering free legal advice and assistance to the broader public at various courts throughout the country. The emphasis is on interfacing with and addressing the legal needs of all South Africans, particularly women, children and the entire disadvantaged group in the society.

Speaking during the launch of the campaign in Kimberly, DOJ&CD Northern Cape Acting Provincial Head: Ms Ronel De Klerk explained that this community service initiatives present an excellent opportunity for the Department to promote access to justice particularly to women and the poor. "Access to justice remains important to us at the Department," she says

Stakeholders from DOJ&CD (Master of the High Court, Office of the Family Advocate, Promotion of the Rights of Vulnerable Groups Unit within DOJ&CD, Provincial Offices, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), South African Police Services (SAPS), and Legal Aid South Africa, set up desks at courts or community halls in their area and assist community members.

DOJ&CD Eastern Cape Provincial hosts Access to Justice Week campaign at Port St John and Ngqeleni Magistrate Courts.

Some of the stakeholder's present included South African Human Rights Commission, Legal Aid South Africa and Alwande Ulwazi Community Advice Centre.

DOJ&CD Gauteng Provincial Access to Justice Week campaign at Kagiso and Ga-Rankuwa Magistrates Courts. Officials set up information desks where they assisted community members. Officials were able to assist community members on Maintenance, Deceased Estates, Guardian's Fund, Small Claims Courts, Domestic Violence, Criminal and Civil matters.