Sinika Uthando

About Sinika Uthando

Sinika Uthando ("give love" in IsiZulu) has been serving the communities of Chatsworth, Welbedacht, Mobeni, and surrounding areas in Durban since 2003. Founded and directed by Jennifer Chetty, the organisation was established to partner with government and community structures in addressing the full scope of social needs affecting vulnerable residents in Durban's southern townships — with a particular focus on survivors of abuse and women trapped in cycles of GBV and economic dependency.

The organisation is governed by a Board of Trustees that includes legal, medical, and community leaders, and works closely with religious organisations, government departments, and community networks to deliver holistic, faith-informed services.

Counselling Centre and Safe House

At the heart of Sinika Uthando's work is their counselling centre and place of refuge, which provides immediate and transitional safety to survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and crime. This safe house enables survivors who cannot safely return home — or who would otherwise return to an abuser due to lack of alternatives — to access a protected space while rebuilding their lives. The centre operates on the basis of "godly counsel, technical and social skills," combining emotional and spiritual support with practical empowerment.

Sinika Uthando remained open throughout the COVID-19 lockdown period to deal with GBV emergencies, reflecting the organisation's commitment to survivors even under the most difficult operational circumstances.

Economic Empowerment: Project Bambalela

Recognising that financial dependency is one of the most powerful barriers keeping survivors in abusive relationships, Sinika Uthando launched Project Bambalela — a 12-month learnership programme targeting GBV survivors aged 18–34 who are not in employment, education, or training. The qualification in New Venture Creation equips participants with entrepreneurial skills, workplace exposure, and the tools to build economically independent futures. Project Bambalela has enrolled over 500 young women and explicitly addresses the documented link between GBV victimisation and unemployment.

Additional Services

Beyond the shelter, counselling, and learnership, Sinika Uthando provides: - Life skills training and various training interventions for community members. - Substance abuse and addiction rehabilitation for drug and alcohol dependence. - Food bank providing hampers, masks, and essential supplies to impoverished families and elderly residents. - Community reintegration for marginalised populations including former sex workers and street children. - Youth development and empowerment programmes in local communities.