South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed a nation today, outlining a major initiative to address the alarming rise in gender-based violence, particularly concerning the recent discovery of 12 women’s bodies in an area east of Johannesburg. The deaths, sparked by a national outcry, have intensified calls for increased protections and measures to address this issue. Ramaphosa announced a multidisciplinary emergency response for the murders, acknowledging the country’s high rate of gender-based violence, which is among the highest globally. He pointed out that the deaths have led the authorities to have not established that the killings were committed by a single perpetrator, indicating a possible investigation. The government has committed to a comprehensive audit – including identifying dangerous areas, including transportation routes and facilities – and a wave of new measures to protect women and girls. He announced a new enforcement package to reduce alcohol-related violence, emphasizing that alcohol does not excuse violence against women. Ramaphosa emphasized that responsibility lies with the perpetrator, stating that harm is always a consequence of a failed attempt at protection and coercion. He urged men and boys to take the lead in preventing harmful behavior through a commitment to changing attitudes that value women as inferior. He concluded the address by highlighting that a deeper societal shift, beyond policing and legislation, is crucial to reduce violence against women. The South African government has recorded 5,427 murders between April and June this year, highlighting the urgency of this issue.
Source: BBC Africa
