The Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) has launched a nationwide initiative providing free armed response services to all women in South Africa for 30 days, in response to growing concerns over violence against women.
The announcement follows a series of tragic murders that have left the country shocked and renewed calls for action to improve women’s safety.
AA CEO Bobby Ramagwede said the initiative is the organisation’s way of supporting women during a time of crisis.
“We see you, we hear you, and we want to help,” he said, while also urging other corporates to step up and contribute to solutions that protect women.
The service is completely free, with no hidden costs or automatic subscription after the 30-day period. Women can register via the AA website, download the MyAA app, and activate the service, which turns their phone into a mobile panic button that can summon armed-response assistance when needed.
The AA said the initiative is not a long-term solution to South Africa’s gender-based violence crisis, but an immediate intervention aimed at providing greater safety and peace of mind.
“Ultimately, it is all our duty to keep the women of South Africa safe,” the organisation said.
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