South Africa 'feels like a prison' for women amid spate of femicides

Key Points:

• Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a 38-year-old mother and runner, was found murdered near Johannesburg airport, becoming one of nine women killed in a recent spate of violent attacks in the area, most involving sexual assault.
• South Africa faces alarmingly high rates of gender-based violence, with over 100 rapes reported daily and about 15 women killed each day, fueling national outrage and fear amid the recent killings.
• Police have not ruled out the possibility of a serial killer and have advised women to avoid walking or running alone, a recommendation criticized on social media for placing responsibility on women rather than authorities.
• President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed a thorough investigation, but activists and citizens argue the government has failed to adequately protect women despite declaring gender-based violence a national disaster in 2025.
• Public protests and memorial runs have been held in honor of the victims, highlighting widespread feelings of insecurity and frustration among South African women, who cite systemic issues including ineffective policing and deep-rooted societal and historical factors contributing to the crisis.