South Africans demand change after deaths of nine women

South Africans rallied this week in memory of nine women whose deaths near Johannesburg reignited concern over brutality against women that many believe is a daily threat. Police have discovered the bodies of the victims in the Ekurhuleni area east of Johannesburg over the past two months, and they are investigating whether the killings are connected.

Most of the victims were in their 20s and 30s, some found naked and with evidence of sexual assault. A memorial run in Johannesburg on Saturday honored one of the victims, Elizabeth Moselakgomo, whose remains were discovered days after she went for a run. Participants carried candles and a banner that read "Enough. Stop Femicide."

Lerato Lentsela, one of the many people dressed in black, said, "We are here because we've lost a runner. But we are not safe anywhere." The women's safety is compromised not only during daily activities like running or being on a date but also in their homes and even when using transportation like Ubers. The incidents have reignited anger over gender-based violence, which was declared a national disaster in South Africa in 2025.

While the government has made official promises, many women feel these gestures have not significantly improved their sense of security. The Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation, a charity fighting gender-based violence, stated, "Enough is enough. Our women deserve to live, walk, run, and exist without fear."

President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged that South Africa would not tolerate such violence and vowed to investigate thoroughly. However, the country's policing faces challenges like corruption and a lack of resources, with only about one in ten murders ever solved. Merlize Jogiat of Women for Change, who organized a memorial event in Cape Town, criticized police for attributing the discovery of the victims to increased police presence, arguing that the issue is nationwide.

Some women have also criticized the police's advice to take extra precautions when exercising or walking alone, saying, "Women should not have to organize their entire lives around surviving violence and not being next."