South Africans mourn nine women as killings renew anger over femicide

Memorial runs and vigils are demanding action after nine women were found dead near Johannesburg over two months.

South Africans are gathering for memorial runs and protests after nine women were found dead near Johannesburg, renewing national anger over gender-based violence. The South Africa femicide outcry follows years of demonstrations, including 2018 national protests against violence toward women and the movement that followed the killing of university student Uyinene Mrwetyana.

Reuters reported that police have found the bodies of nine women in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, over the past two months. Most were in their 20s and 30s, and some were found partially unclothed with signs of sexual assault.

Authorities are investigating whether the deaths are connected. Police have not confirmed that a serial killer is responsible.

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A memorial run on Saturday honored 38-year-old Elizabeth Moselakgomo, who disappeared after leaving home for a run and was found dead days later. Participants dressed in black, lit candles and carried a banner reading, “Enough. Stop Femicide.”

Other memorial events were held during the week, including a vigil in Cape Town where students and activists called for stronger action against violence targeting women.

The killings have intensified scrutiny of South Africa’s response to gender-based violence, which the government declared a national disaster in 2025. President Cyril Ramaphosa said Thursday that the country could not become accustomed to the violence and pledged a thorough investigation.

Women for Change, which organized a Cape Town memorial, also criticized advice telling women to take extra precautions when exercising or walking alone. The organization argued that responsibility for preventing violence should not be placed on potential victims.

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South Africa continues to struggle with high levels of violent crime and an under-resourced police system. Reuters reports that only about one in 10 murders is solved.

The outcry over femicide in South Africa now extends beyond the individual investigations. Protesters and advocacy groups are demanding broader changes that would allow women to walk, exercise, travel and live without continually planning around the threat of violence.