Joining us now is Lucia Mogale, a helpline agent at the National Shelter Movement 
of South Africa. 

South Africa is heading into the festive season, a time meant for rest, family and 
celebration. 
But for many women and children, December is one of the most dangerous times of 
the year. 
Gender-Based Violence and Femicide has now been officially declared a national 
disaster, and shelters are warning that cases often spike during the holidays. 
More people are at home. Schools are closed. Work routines stop. And for some 
families, that means being trapped in unsafe and sometimes violent spaces. 
The National Shelter Movement of South Africa says shelters and helplines are 
already under pressure and is calling for urgent awareness, support and action