The ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) submitted a memorandum to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana at the National Treasury offices in Pretoria on 3 August 2026, issuing a seven-day ultimatum for the allocation of funding to fight gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The League’s memorandum follows what it describes as a lack of clear financial commitment in the wake of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s declaration of GBVF as a national disaster in November 2025.

Details Of The Funding Demand And Treasury Response

Addressing supporters outside the Treasury, ANCWL Acting President Nokuthula Nqaba said the League believes the funding already exists and simply needs to be redirected to effective GBVF interventions. Nqaba stated, “We are giving the minister an ultimatum of seven days because we believe and are convinced that there is funding, but what is needed is to place that funding properly where it is needed to address the issues.”

She added, “It can’t be business as usual. [It has been] since last year, we have been engaging with the minister, and we have not seen any progress.” The League has called for the National Treasury to respond with a detailed plan for GBVF funding by 10 August 2026. As of publication, the Treasury has not issued a public statement regarding the League’s demand, and it remains unclear whether new funding allocations will be announced.

Policy Context And GBVF Efforts In South Africa

This protest follows a series of government commitments made since GBVF was classified as a national disaster in November 2025. The declaration was intended to escalate government focus and resource allocation, but civil society and the ANCWL have expressed frustration over persistent funding delays and lack of visible progress.

Gender-based violence and femicide remain a critical crisis in South Africa, with advocacy groups and international organisations consistently ranking the country’s GBV rates among the highest globally. The ANCWL’s intervention underscores broader concerns about the pace of government reforms and serves as a public test of National Treasury’s commitment to substantive action.

The Finance Minister is expected to respond to the ANCWL’s memorandum before the 10 August deadline. Further action by the League or the Treasury is anticipated if satisfactory funding measures are not communicated in time.