Rising Concerns Over Gender-Based Violence

The ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) expressed alarm over escalating violence against women in South Africa. Reports indicate that both spousal and non-spousal violence has become rampant, with the organization likening the situation to a “pandemic.” Such violence has been characterized by the Gender and Health Research Unit of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) as extreme forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Insights from SAMRC Studies

According to Secretary-General Nokuthula Nqaba, the SAMRC has conducted four comprehensive surveys since 1999, which reveal alarming statistics regarding femicide. This research indicates that, on average, four women were murdered by intimate partners every day, a figure that decreased to three in 2009. However, a subsequent study conducted during the first year of COVID-19 showed a troubling increase in these incidents.

Nqaba stated, “The SAMRC further made a provincial breakdown of its research with provinces such as the Eastern Cape and Gauteng reporting significant increases.” She emphasized that these statistics are corroborated by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and reflect poorly on a nation known for its strong constitutional democracy.

Legal Rights and Women’s Safety

The South African Constitution guarantees the right to life as a fundamental human right, a principle Nqaba reiterated in light of the rising violence. She noted the troubling nature of these attacks, which increasingly target vulnerable women.

The ANCWL has also observed a discernible rise in violence against women in non-spousal contexts, where victims are often lured through social media. Nqaba urged women to exercise caution when meeting new acquaintances, particularly in private settings.

Tragic Case Highlighting the Issue

The recent murder of Olorato Mongale, who was killed after a date with a man she met online, serves as a grim reminder of the dangers women face. Mongale’s companion, identified only as “John,” reportedly drove a stolen vehicle with a cloned license plate, suggesting premeditated intent.

Nqaba remarked on this tragedy, stating that it exemplifies the cruel reality many women encounter when meeting strangers from online platforms. She urged women to always inform friends or family about their whereabouts before meeting someone new.

Call for Collective Responsibility

In closing, Nqaba urged men to show compassion and understanding towards women, highlighting that “every seed of success in a nation is best planted in a woman.” She called for societal change to ensure the safety and dignity of women in all contexts.