The SPAR Women’s Challenge in Cape Town is a road race exclusively for women that promotes women’s health, empowerment, and raises awareness and funds to end genderbased violence. The event offers a 10 km race and a 5 km fun walk/run and is dedicated to improving women’s lives through donations of sanitary pads and supporting abuse survivors. Over 14,000 women are expected to participate in the race, which is more than just a race but a celebration of community spirit and wellbeing.
Mpharu Hloyi, Cape Town’s first black female scientific officer and advocate against genderbased violence, was tragically shot and killed by Ivan Magokane, a man she had tried to help. Magokane was sentenced to life in prison for Hloyi’s murder and other charges. Hloyi’s passing left an immeasurable void in the city she had served with unwavering devotion. This heartrending tale underscores the bravery of women like Hloyi and Malema, who persist in their fight against genderbased violence, inspiring hope for a future devoid of oppression and fear.
A horrific incident at Susannah Fourie Primary School in Nelson Mandela Bay has highlighted the issue of genderbased violence in South Africa. Recent crime statistics reveal a concerning rise in sexual offenses, with the majority of these crimes occurring in homes and being perpetrated by acquaintances. A brave survivor fought for justice against the Eastern Cape Education Department, which admitted negligence and agreed to pay her R5 million in damages, underscoring the need for systemic change in the South African education system and wider society.
Mpharu Hloyi, Cape Town’s first black female scientific officer, was tragically killed, along with the targeted murder attempts on her three colleagues, on March 28, 2022, at the Athlone water and waste treatment facility in Cape Town. The perpetrator, Ivan Magokane, is currently facing trial for his monstrous offenses. This incident serves as a bleak reminder of the ongoing menace of genderbased violence and the immediate requirement for efficient intervention and support systems.
Positioned in the core of South Africa, Northern Cape province recently seized the spotlight for an occurrence that highlights the government’s unwavering determination to tackle genderbased violence and femicide (GBVF). This fusion of cuttingedge resources and unyielding commitment signifies a considerable stride in the ongoing struggle against these deeply rooted societal problems.
The shocking murder of Kirsten Kluyts, a teacher in Sandton, has exposed the pervasive nature of genderbased violence in South Africa. Despite being a wealthy area, Sandton is not immune to violent crime, and this case has shattered the illusion of safety. The accused, Bafana Mahungela, has denied wrongdoing, but the community remains hopeful that justice will be served. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of genderbased violence and create a safer society for all.
In Cape Town, a human chain was formed to show support for victims and survivors of genderbased violence (GBV). The Western Cape Government has pledged to continue fighting GBV all year round and has trained community ambassadors to be the first line of defense against GBV. People are encouraged to take personal responsibility in fighting GBV and to make changes within their communities. Victims and survivors can receive help through the Department of Social Development’s tollfree number or by sending an SMS.
Siya Kolisi, a renowned rugby player from South Africa, is committed to philanthropy and raising awareness about genderbased violence. He uses his influence to inspire positive change in his community, rather than turning to politics. Kolisi’s dedication stems from personal experience, as his aunt and mother suffered from abuse. He believes in the healing power of conversation and has used his success in sports to unite people across his country. Ultimately, Kolisi’s unwavering commitment to social justice and community welfare makes him an inspirational figure both on and off the rugby grounds.
Father a Nation, a nonprofit organization in South Africa, is working to promote healthy masculinity and empower men to become exceptional fathers, mentors, and role models. During the 16 Days of Activism, they will host workshops to educate men about genderbased violence and equip them with the skills they need to embody positive masculinity. By challenging misconceptions and fostering empathy and responsibility, Father a Nation hopes to help heal men and in turn, heal the world.
June Steenkamp’s victim impact statement at Oscar Pistorius’s parole hearing serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of genderbased violence. The premature death of her daughter, Reeva, created a painful void in her family’s dreams, and June remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice and women’s safety. Reeva, who embodied optimism and dreams, was a model and an advocate for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, but her own aspirations were tragically cut short. Despite her profound grief and loss, June’s unwavering strength and resilience serve as a testament to her love for her daughter and her dedication to preserving her memory.
Thembinkosi Lorch, a popular soccer player in South Africa, received a threeyear sentence for assaulting his former girlfriend. However, the sentence was postponed for five years, with conditions that he must stay clear of any convictions related to assault with the intent to inflict serious bodily harm. He was also fined R100,000, which will be directly remitted to a GBV organization. Lorch’s case highlights the issue of genderbased violence and the need to eliminate it.
A vicious act of genderbased violence occurred at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Cape Town when a female student was stabbed by her husband, who is also a student. Social media was flooded with videos of the attack, which caused outrage across the country. Male students reacted by attacking the perpetrator, and the victim was rushed to the hospital. The university administration and political parties responded with denouncements and calls for action against genderbased violence.
Angela Yeung, a Johannesburg entrepreneur and social activist, has been raising awareness about genderbased violence (GBV) in South Africa through her daring mountain expeditions. Her latest venture involved climbing Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighthhighest peak in the Himalayas, and displaying 6,200 bras at Constitution Hill to symbolize the widespread issue of GBV.
South Africa is taking steps to address the high rate of genderbased violence (GBV) in its higher education sector. The Department of Higher Education and Training is working with organizations like Higher Health to implement sustainable systems and controls while also targeting men and boys through initiatives like the Transforming MENtalities Summit to modify their attitudes and behavior towards women and girls. Addressing GBV requires a comprehensive approach that targets social, cultural, and structural factors alongside relationships between men and women.
In South Africa, genderbased violence and femicide are pervasive issues that continue to plague university campuses across the nation. The brutal murder of Uyinene Mrwetyana, a young student at the University of Cape Town, serves as a stark reminder of the deeply entrenched issues that need to be addressed urgently.
In today’s world, the global movement against genderbased violence (GBV) is gaining momentum. However, the brutal assault on 25yearold Zizipho Nikita Kalubi serves as a somber reminder of the persisting danger faced by women in their everyday lives. Kalubi, hailing from Somerset West, endured an unthinkable act of violence after reportedly rejecting a man’s unwarranted advances in Khayelitsha. The fateful encounter unfolded on a Saturday afternoon as Kalubi and her boyfriend were returning from running errands.
