‘A national shame’: Ramaphosa uses Heritage Day to condemn GBV

President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned violence against women in South Africa during his Heritage Day speech on Thursday. He emphasized that this issue should not be something that future generations must endure in the country. Ramaphosa described gender-based violence as a "national shame," stating that the abuse, rape, and killing of women in South Africa is not part of their heritage.

The president expressed his commitment to ensuring women can live without fear in South Africa. He promised to address the nation soon with a plan to curb gender-based violence and to provide an update on the investigation into recent killings of women in Ekurhuleni. Ramaphosa also reminded South Africans of the country's painful history, including dispossession, slavery, colonialism, apartheid, and forced removals.

He highlighted the bravery and strength required to overcome apartheid, while acknowledging the millions of ordinary people who stood against injustice. Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's transition to democracy as one of the country's greatest achievements, noting that despite conflicts and divisions, South Africans chose to build one nation together.

He praised South Africa's diversity, emphasizing that its unique blend of languages, religious practices, histories, and communities defines the nation.