President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced new measures to tackle gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa.
He addressed the nation on Tuesday evening, 29 September 2026.
The address followed the recent killings of women in and around Ekurhuleni.
Ramaphosa also gave an update on the government’s response to the killings.
Review of GBV cases
First, government will review unresolved cases involving women and children.
The review will include murder, attempted murder and rape cases.
Officials will identify cases that need urgent action.
They will also look at delays in the handling of these cases.
The review forms part of a new government action plan.
Safety checks in municipalities
Next, municipalities will carry out safety audits.
The checks will focus on public places where people may be at risk.
For example, officials will look at areas with poor lighting.
They will also check abandoned buildings and other unsafe spaces.
Municipalities will then have to address the problems they find.
Action on forensic delays
In addition, government will take steps to reduce forensic delays.
Forensic evidence can help police investigate serious crimes.
Therefore, officials will work to speed up the processing of evidence.
The aim is to help investigators deal with cases more quickly.
Stronger enforcement
Government will also strengthen the enforcement of liquor laws.
Municipal by-laws will receive greater attention as well.
Authorities will focus on areas where law-breaking may create unsafe conditions.
These measures form part of the wider response to GBV.
Ekurhuleni killings
Meanwhile, the Ekurhuleni killings remain a priority.
Ramaphosa said the investigations must not go cold.
Government will use available resources to establish what happened.
The aim is to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
Call to men and boys
Finally, Ramaphosa called on men and boys to help prevent violence against women and girls.
He urged men to speak out when they witness violence.
He also called on people to challenge behaviour that can lead to abuse.
The new measures have 30-, 60- and 90-day deadlines.
Government departments and municipalities are expected to act within the set timeframes.
Progress will be monitored as the deadlines approach.
