The small rural town of Matatiele in the Eastern Cape, which borders Lesotho and the Free State, is reeling from a spate of brutal gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide cases that have left families traumatized and the community in shock.
In recent weeks, multiple women have been killed in horrific attacks in the area. A 37-year-old woman was hacked to death, a 35-year-old was burned to death, another was shot and killed, and a fourth was stabbed to death—allegedly by her own brother.
“We are very shocked about the brutal killings of women in Matatiele,” said a community leader. “The issue of the high rate of gender-based violence… We are calling on our communities to join hands to fight this crime that is emanating from our own homes.”
Families of the victims are devastated, demanding justice for their loved ones. One grieving relative recounted receiving a harrowing call about a violent scene at a family homestead.
“I arrived there and saw people lying in pools of blood, some without limbs,” the family member said. “It was a tragic moment for us—the death of the young lady, and six others in our family injured.”
Local government officials have expressed deep concern over the escalating violence against women.
“Last week Saturday, we were informed that someone attacked a household here, injuring seven people—one of whom died,” said a community leader. “We are tired as leaders… These brutal killings must stop.”
Authorities are under pressure to take decisive action, while activists and residents are urging stronger measures to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
As Matatiele mourns, the call for an end to GBV grows louder, with the community demanding safety, justice, and an end to the cycle of violence.
