Elizabeth ‘Tsontso’ Moselakgomo, 38, went for a run in Kempton Park on September 9, 2026. She never returned. Her body was later identified at the Germiston mortuary.
Moselakgomo’s death is part of a disturbing series of discoveries in Ekurhuleni. Police are investigating multiple women’s deaths in the area, with some cases showing signs of sexual violence. Authorities have not yet confirmed if the deaths are connected.
A national failure, not just a tragedy
In South Africa, being a woman often means calculating risks in everyday activities: walking home, taking a taxi, going to work, attending a party, leaving an abusive relationship, or even going for a run.
In 2018, the Presidential Summit on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) aimed to create a roadmap for a South Africa free from GBVF. It emerged after thousands of women marched to the Union Buildings demanding action.
The summit’s commitments included a coordinated national response, stronger laws, improved criminal justice, and accountability mechanisms. It was intended to be a turning point, not just another conference.
From declarations to disasters
The 2020 National Strategic Plan on GBVF was adopted as a society-wide program. Its pillars focused on accountability, prevention, justice, support, and research.
In November 2025, the National Disaster Management Centre classified GBVF as a national disaster under the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002. This followed years of campaigning by women’s organizations.
The classification raises questions about the government’s motivation. Was it a genuine commitment or a response to pressure? Did they act because they understood the crisis, or because global attention was on South Africa’s streets filled with protesters in black clothing?
In 2024, President Ramaphosa supported a national anti-GBV pledge, encouraging men to commit to ending GBVF. However, pledges alone are insufficient. South Africa needs men to actively intervene before crimes occur.
Addressing the Root Causes of Violence
The focus on preventing gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa has largely centered on women’s behavior, with an endless list of precautions they are expected to take. However, this approach places the burden of prevention on potential victims rather than addressing the actions of perpetrators. The question arises: why is the responsibility to prevent violence primarily on women, instead of on those who commit it?
Accountability and Action
The first pillar of the National Strategic Plan emphasizes accountability, coordination, and leadership. This should serve as a constant reminder to every institution tasked with protecting women.
Accountability goes beyond statements and investigation promises. It requires examining why women continue to die despite numerous strategies and plans.
This includes assessing whether law enforcement has the resources, skills, and urgency to handle disappearances and sexual violence effectively.
It also means evaluating the accessibility and efficiency of support systems for survivors, ensuring funds for GBVF programs reach communities and produce tangible results.
Shifting the Focus
The Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 offers a legal framework for coordinated action. It remains to be seen if this classification will bring the urgency, resources, and outcomes needed to improve South African women’s lives.
