President Cyril Ramaphosa has named 11 women killed in Ekurhuleni, South Africa, as part of a broader effort to address gender-based violence and femicide. The victims were discovered in the city since July 2026, prompting urgent government action. Ramaphosa announced a series of interventions, including improved policing, stricter alcohol controls, and better street lighting, to reduce violence in the area.
The president acknowledged the government’s failure to prevent the killings, calling the situation a national crisis. He emphasized the need for local municipalities to take immediate action, including increased patrols and better reporting mechanisms. The victims, mostly young women, were found in various locations across Ekurhuleni, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Ramaphosa also released the names of the victims, a step aimed at providing closure to families and raising public awareness. The government has pledged to implement a 90-day plan to improve safety in the region. Local authorities have been instructed to prioritize the protection of women and girls, with a focus on high-risk areas.
The response has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the government’s commitment and others demanding faster action. The situation in Ekurhuleni remains a focal point for national efforts to combat gender-based violence.
