You strike a woman, you strike a rock

This story contains details of brutally lethal acts of gender based violence that may upset sensitive readers. 

As we end August, Women’s Month in South Africa, I raise my voice in solidarity with the survivors and victims of a country ravaged by femicide. In South Africa, more than 2 700 women have been murdered as a result of gender based violence since 2000. Femicide in the country is reportedly five times higher than the global average. Since lockdown started last year, we have seen an increase in gender based violence, triggering what has become known as a 'secondary pandemic'. 

Last week, 23-year old final year law student, Nosicelo Mtebeni was murdered. Her remains were found dismembered in a suitcase, and some of her body parts were found in a plastic bag outside the accused's home. Nosicelo's head and hands were found in his bedroom. 

The 25-year old man, alleged to be her boyfriend, has since been arrested for the gruesome and barbaric crime. He appeared in court this week and opted not to apply for bail. It is alleged that the brutal murder followed an argument between Nosicelo and the man. I cannot bring myself to write his name. He allegedly used a handsaw to dismember and decapitate his victim. 

In August, South Africans commemorate and honour women, and their indelible role in the country's historic fight for freedom. A young woman's life was senselessly taken during this month. I remember other victims. 

Tshegofatso Pule was eight months pregnant when she was killed in June last year. Her body, stabbed, was found hanging from a tree. 

In August 2019, Uyinene Mrwetyana, 19, was raped and murdered when she collected a parcel at the post office. She was bludgeoned to death and her body was locked up in a post office safe before being dumped later. 

South Africa faces a huge problem. I am disgusted to know that men arrested for heinous crimes are offered the choice of bail. I am mortified by the knowing that these are only three of the thousands of murders that make up our harrowing statistics. The notions that a woman’s life is worthless, or that her sexuality is a commodity to be owned and transgressed, seem to have taken root here. Circles of women are convening to strategise our course of action.

We are tired of not being heard. We remember our foremothers who raised their voices for our democracy.

Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo’ - You strike a woman, you strike a rock.