Nationwide Movement in South Africa Takes a Stand Against Gender Violence

In a powerful response to the alarming rates of gender-based violence (GBV), women's rights organizations across South Africa are organizing a countrywide protest with the aim of declaring GBV a national disaster. With increasing attacks on women, activists are calling for immediate governmental intervention.

The initiative started as a viral campaign on social media and is set to culminate in a massive “shutdown” this Friday, aligning with the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. Supporters are participating by changing their profile pictures to purple, a color synonymous with GBV awareness.

South Africa struggles with some of the highest global statistics for violence against women. According to UN Women, women in this nation are five times more likely to be murdered than the worldwide average. Data shows that from January to March 2025 alone, 137 women lost their lives to murder and over 1,000 were victims of rape.

During the protest, participants are encouraged to refrain from work or school, “withdraw from the economy for a day,” and observe 15 minutes of silence at noon to honor lives lost. This moment of remembrance will take place at 15 key locations throughout South Africa, including major urban centers like Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. Support has also been pledged from allies in Eswatini, Kenya, and Namibia. Attendees are advised to dress in black as a symbol of mourning and determination.

The protest is spearheaded by Women for Change, which has led the online initiative and gathered over one million signatures for a petition urging the government to amplify its response to GBV. However, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has dismissed the request, asserting that GBV does not fit the legal criteria for a national disaster.

Addressing the issue at the G20 Social Summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged South Africa’s ongoing battle against GBV, highlighting that the nation declared gender-based violence and femicide a national crisis back in 2019. Activists contend that since then, progress has been minimal, with inadequate execution of laws and initiatives.

Cameron Kasambala, a spokesperson for Women for Change, asserted, “Violence has pervaded our culture and social frameworks. We need the government to take the lead and endorse authentic change.”

This campaign has garnered significant backing from both public figures and everyday citizens. Grammy-winning artist Tyla and others are participating in the online “purple movement” by showcasing purple hearts, apparel, or accessories to enhance awareness.

In a bid to ensure safety, some South African women are taking proactive steps. Lynette Oxeley established Girls on Fire, a group dedicated to training women in self-defense techniques using firearms. The majority of members have personal experiences with assault, rape, or robbery. One participant, Prudence, joined after suffering rape in 2022, compounded by the loss of a DNA kit, leaving her without recourse to justice.

Oxeley cautioned that firearm use should always be a last resort. “It’s about empowering women to break their silence, not solely self-defense,” she said. “Even in defeat, fighting back is crucial.”

This nationwide protest serves as a powerful reminder that gender-based violence remains a critical issue in South Africa, with activists and everyday individuals urging the government to take decisive action to safeguard women.