02 June 2023 – Sonke Gender Justice is concerned about the reported increase in murder cases of women and children in South Africa, as Police Minister Bheki Cele released the statistics for crimes recorded between January and March 2023 earlier this week. More than nine hundred women are reported to have been killed, while just over two hundred children were killed during the same period, an increase in the last three years.
The statistics also revealed that over ten thousand rape cases were registered during this period, Gauteng recorded the most rape cases, followed by KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. ‘’ This indicates that these cited provinces are not safe places for women and girls. But we also know that such crimes happen in other provinces as well though in low numbers. This in essence makes the whole of South Africa a crime scene in relation to violence against women.’’ Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance.
Police Minister Bheki Cele has committed to leaving no stone unturned in addressing the scourge of violence, emphasizing that Operation Shanela will see more law enforcement officers on the ground fighting crime. ‘’Sadly, we have heard these promises before by the Minister. In another country with such horrible statistics, the Minister of Police would have resigned in shame as a form of accountability, but not in South Africa. Begs the question, why is the President keeping Minister Cele in this position when he is failing to ensure that women and girls are safe in this country. ‘’ said Khumalo.
Sonke Gender Justice calls for more proactive action from the state to turn the tide against the scourge of violence on women and girls as a matter of urgency.
For media enquiries contact:
Kgomotso Mophulane,Communications & Strategic Information Manager, Sonke Gender Justice on kgomotso@genderjustice.org.za or 0835196187.
Bafana Khumalo, Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice and Co-Chairperson, Global MenEngage Alliance: bafana@genderjustice.org.za or 082 5784479.
NOTE TO EDITORS
Sonke is a South African-based non-profit organisation working throughout Africa. We believe women and men, girls and boys can work together to resist patriarchy, advocate for gender justice, and achieve gender transformation. For media releases, reports and news visit https://genderjustice.org.za/ and https://genderjustice.org.za/newsletter-signup/
