Femicide Fatigue Sets in as South Africa’s Response Falters

The recent spate of femicides in Johannesburg has left many in South Africa reeling. Despite ongoing investigations into nine cases, it’s clear that the country’s crisis of violence against women shows no signs of abating.

The declaration of gender-based violence as a national disaster last November was met with fanfare and promises of action from President Cyril Ramaphosa. However, little has been done to address the root causes of this epidemic or support those affected by it. The National Shelter Movement of South Africa (NSMSA) paints a stark picture: their 24-hour helpline and affiliated shelters are overwhelmed with women seeking refuge from abuse.

The NSMSA’s words should be a wake-up call for policymakers: “These are not isolated incidents; they are indicators of a broader crisis in which violence against women has become deeply normalised in many communities.” The government’s advice to women – avoid walking or running alone, don’t go out at night – only reinforces this notion. By implying that women can prevent violence by changing their behavior, the authorities are essentially saying that the onus of safety lies with the victim, not the perpetrator.

Princess Eurika Mogane, a commissioner at South Africa’s Commission for Gender Equality, put it bluntly: “It feels like individuals are being hunted.” Her words echo through the corridors of power, demanding a more nuanced and effective response from those in charge. However, there has been little sign of meaningful action.

Shelters face funding shortages, survivors report delays in police responses, and protection orders are often unenforceable. For many women, leaving an abusive relationship remains one of the most perilous moments – financially, emotionally, and physically. The government’s silence on these issues is deafening. When Al Jazeera asked for a response to criticism of its handling of violence against women, it received none.

South Africa’s parliament claims the country’s femicide rate is five times the global average. This statistic tells us that there is something fundamentally wrong with the way society treats its women. It tells us that we have failed to create a culture of respect, equality, and safety for half our population.

As the world watches South Africa’s struggle against femicide, one thing becomes clear: it will take more than just declarations or promises to change course. A fundamental shift in how society values and protects its women is required. Anything less is simply not enough.

The question now is what comes next. Will South African leaders finally take concrete action to address the root causes of this crisis, or will they continue to offer empty words and hollow promises? The clock is ticking, and the bodies keep piling up.