South African President Ramaphosa unveils new measures to tackle violence against women

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced new measures Tuesday to combat gender-based violence following the killing of at least 11 women in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, since July.

The recent spate of killings in Ekurhuleni has frightened residents, particularly after the 11th victim’s body was discovered Sunday. The area remains on high alert while authorities investigate whether a serial killer or killers are responsible.

Ramaphosa said four suspects have been arrested in connection with the cases, and he has ordered a multidisciplinary, national-level emergency response to address the violence. The president acknowledged that the government has not done enough to protect women and girls, stating that gender-based violence cannot be accepted as a normal part of life in South Africa.

As a nation, we must stand up for the rights, safety and dignity of women and girls. As we do so, our hearts go out to all the families affected by the terrible events in the Kempton Park area.

The government’s new strategy includes a clean-up of high-risk areas and increased police presence to ensure the safety of citizens. The discovery of the bodies has sparked a national outcry, highlighting the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence in the country.