Driving Change: Avis Fleet's Support for the GBV Fund In the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
Avis Fleet Helps Drive the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence Through Sponsorship of GBV Fund
Johannesburg, 19 December
Avis Fleet is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Response Fund (GBVF), following a handover of vehicles during the annual international 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign week.
As this year marks the 25th anniversary since South Africa initiated its participation in the United Nations campaign, the country still has one of the highest incidents of gender-based violence in the world, with police reporting a continued increase in rape and murder cases against women in 2023.
The sponsorship designed to support the GBVF’s objective of being a catalyst in the fight against gender-based violence, will see AVIS providing mobility solutions for the fund’s representatives to reach hotspots across all provinces, where education is crucial in combating the scourge of gender-based violence. Avis Fleet has committed to a 12-month sponsorship providing two Nissan X-trail vehicles as part of the agreement. The co-branded vehicles will play a prominent role in various events and campaigns throughout the sponsorship period, providing the necessary support to the fund across the country.
The decision to sponsor the fund aligns with the company’s commitment to driving the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The Fund prioritises GBV hotspots, strategically allocating resources to communities with the highest occurrences of violence, based on reported sexual offenses per police station. It aims to be a trusted partner and amplifier that connects and convenes stakeholders, to accelerate action and accountability on gender-based violence and femicide.
“In our commitment to connect humanity through uniquely shaped mobility solutions, as AVIS and ZEDA Limited, we recognise the profound impact of gender-based violence on our communities. Our partnership with the GBVF fund aligns with our core belief that fostering a culture of equality and respect is crucial in preventing this scourge. As we drive towards a future where everyone is valued and respected equally, we remain committed to making a positive impact on the communities in which we operate.” said Zeda Group CEO, Ramasela Ganda.
GBVF CEO Sazini Mojapelo, echoes this sentiment with their campaign's powerful quote: "In a world with respect, there is no gender-based violence." The R.E.S.P.E.C.T campaign, launched on Heritage Day, outlines key principles such as Recognizing the problem, Engaging everyone, Shifting social norms, Promoting prevention, Empowering voices, Creating support systems, and Taking action.
Avis Fleet anticipates a continued collaboration and support beyond the initial 12-month sponsorship period, viewing the partnership as an ongoing opportunity to contribute to the GBV Fund's mission and the betterment of society.