Ramaphosa Announces Action Plan to End Violence Against Women in 2026
Reading Time: 2 minutesPresident Cyril Ramaphosa has mapped out an action plan to tackle GBVF in SA. Read more about what he wants to implement.
Image Credit: The Presidency of SA
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening South Africa’s response to gender-based violence and femicide, saying previous efforts have not been enough.
Addressing the nation on tonight, 29 september, Ramaphosa said the country could no longer accept the continued killing of women as normal.
“The violence inflicted upon the women of South Africa is a source of profound pain and national shame,” said Ramaphosa. He also acknowledged the limits of previous government interventions, saying: “What we have done has not been enough. We need to do much more.”
Strengthening investigations improving safety
Ramaphosa said government will now focus on strengthening investigations, improving safety and ensuring that institutions respond more effectively to cases of violence against women.
He announced that police and justice authorities will conduct a national review of unresolved murders, attempted murders, rape and serious sexual offences involving women and children.
The review will examine outstanding cases, including those delayed by forensic evidence or other investigative challenges.
Speeding up the forensic process
Government will also focus on forensic backlogs, with police and forensic authorities expected to develop measures to speed up the processing of evidence linked to cases involving women and children.
Municipalities will be required to assess safety risks in their communities, including poor lighting, unsafe public spaces and other areas where women may be vulnerable to violence.
The President also called for stronger enforcement of liquor laws, particularly against illegal outlets and businesses operating outside permitted hours.
Not In My Name International
The announcements come as Not In My Name International calls for the government’s response to be followed by measurable action.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the organisation called for adequately resourced investigations, regular updates from SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority, direct support for victims’ families and improved responses to reports of missing women, sexual violence and domestic abuse.
They also called for clear deadlines, responsible departments and public reporting on the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF.
With government now outlining a series of measures, attention will turn to how the commitments are implemented and whether departments meet the timelines set out in the response.
