“Stop killing our women and children.” Plea to Minister Kubayi

By Patrick Makinita

“We cannot go on like this; stop killing our women and children.” This plea from the residents of Zeerust set the tone for an emotional Imbizo with Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mamoloko Kubayi on Tuesday.

The area has been identified as a hotspot for Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), following a series of incidents late last year.

During the gathering, community members expressed their concerns about daily living. Mpho Sebopelo, a resident of Ntsweletsoku village, recalled the number of women who died in the area last year.

 “In just a short time, we have lost innocent lives. People here are scared to go out. We need action, not words,” she said.

Sebopelo said the minister’s visit, though long overdue, sent a clear message that the government stands with victims.

“It shows the state cares, and we hope this message reaches those still planning to harm our families,” she said.

Other residents urged men to take responsibility for their actions. Karabelo Mogomotsi from Rietpan village told the Minister that respect for women and children must start at home.

“Men must speak out when they feel pressured instead of turning to violence. Women and children are part of our society; they are valuable. We have to stop these killings,” he said.

Residents also called on the government to impose harsher sentences for perpetrators and to intensify awareness campaigns. The residents  said visible policing and community programmes could make a difference in saving lives.

 South African Police Service statistics for the year ending March 2025 show that North West province recorded 792 rapes, down from 832 in the previous year, and 958 sexual offences overall, down from 1 012, reflecting a 5.3 % decline in that category. The data also show 3 929 assaults with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm and 3 083 common assaults in the province over the same period.

Kubayi told the community that the government would work to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

“This behaviour cannot be tolerated. We must all break the silence and challenge harmful norms,” she said.

She said the government and the residents must stand together to prevent GBVF. “We must support victims and survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Let’s break the silence and build a culture of respect and empathy,” she said.