KZN records highest rates of domestic violence murders in SA
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for sustained action against gender-based violence, as provincial figures show female victims remain disproportionately affected by domestic violence crimes.
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is currently experiencing the highest rates of domestic violence murders in South Africa, according to Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli. The province has launched an all-year intervention plan, #SilwaNechilo, to combat rising sexual offences and domestic violence. Between April and June 2026, 569 women were murdered in South Africa, with 9,201 rapes reported.
In KZN alone, more than 50,000 gender-based violence and femicide cases were reported to the police during the same period. The #SilwaNechilo initiative, which aims to protect, educate, mobilise, transform communities, and demand leadership, was developed in response to the alarming statistics and the need for sustained societal mobilisation.
KZN's crime data shows that domestic violence-related murders, attempted murders, rapes, and assaults account for the highest rates in the country. Alcohol abuse and arguments often contribute to these violent incidents. To address the issue, KZN is implementing community policing forums, private security partnerships, urban upgrades, social interventions, economic opportunities, and justice system efficiency measures.
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