The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, has strongly condemned the continuing violence against women following the discovery of several women’s bodies in and around Kempton Park and other parts of Ekurhuleni.
The Deputy Minister’s remarks came after police discovered the body of a ninth woman on Thursday, 17 September 2026, in Dawn Park, Boksburg. This followed the discovery of eight bodies in Ekurhuleni over the past two months.
“The responsibility for ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) cannot be placed on women by constantly telling them where they should or should not go. We must confront the perpetrators and the conditions that allow violence against women to continue. Men must become active partners in challenging harmful behaviour, reporting abuse and protecting the dignity and safety of women and children,” the Deputy Minister said in a statement on Saturday.
She said the incidents represent a devastating attack on women’s rights to life, dignity and freedom of movement.
Mabe noted that the recent killing of Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, a mother and member of the running community, along with the discovery of other women’s bodies in the area, has caused widespread fear, anger and grief.
“No woman should fear that going for a run, walking to work, being at home in her safe space, going to a mall, moving through her community or simply going on a date could cost her life. Women have the right to participate in sport, exercise outdoors and occupy public spaces without fear of being attacked or killed,” the Deputy Minister said.
She extended her heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all the women whose lives have been taken by GBVF.
The Deputy Minister said she stands in solidarity with the running community; civil society organisations, non-profit organisations and non-governmental organisations working in the justice, gender and women’s rights, and GBVF sectors; residents of Ekurhuleni; and the broader public demanding justice and safer communities for women.
Mabe welcomed the prioritisation of investigations by law-enforcement authorities and called for all necessary resources to be deployed to establish the circumstances surrounding the killings and bring those responsible to justice.
She encouraged communities to share any information that may assist the police.
“We cannot become accustomed to the killing of women. Every victim has a name, a family, dreams and a future. Their lives matter. Justice must be pursued without fear or favour, and our collective response must demonstrate that there is no place for violence against women in South Africa,” Mabe said. -SAnews.gov.za
