15/09/2026
THERE IS A CRISIS IN OUR CITY
In Kempton Park and greater Ekurhuleni, multiple women have been found murdered in the last two months. Another woman’s body was discovered on 15 September in KwaThema, Springs.
We will not normalise this.
We will not scroll past.
We will not tell women to “just be careful” and leave the rest to chance.
This post is not about living in fear. It is about choosing vigilance, community and action.
As a female entrepreneur building a business in Johannesburg, I cannot continue with business as usual while women in our city are not safe. This affects our teams, clients, families, commutes and communities.
I still believe in hope. I believe in people looking out for one another, using their voices responsibly and choosing courageous action over silence.
Vigilance is not fear. It is care.
These reminders do not put responsibility for violence on women - the responsibility always belongs to those who cause harm. They are simply practical ways we can remain connected and look out for one another:
• Tell someone where you are going, how you are travelling and when you expect to arrive.
• Share your live location with a trusted person when travelling, exercising, meeting a new client or working late.
• Choose busy, well-lit routes and avoid isolated shortcuts where possible.
• Walk, run or exercise with someone else or a trusted group, particularly in quieter areas. SAPS has urged women in and around Kempton Park to avoid isolated areas and to travel or exercise in groups where possible.
• Keep your phone charged, accessible and emergency contacts easy to reach.
• Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, leave and move toward a busy, staffed public place.
• If you think you are being followed while driving, do not go home. Go to a police station, security point, busy petrol station or shopping centre, then call for help.
• Do not confront suspicious people or vehicles. If it is safe, note the location, time, vehicle details and direction of travel, then report it.
To every woman building, working, studying, commuting and living in Johannesburg: You are not alone.
To the men in our businesses and communities: women’s safety is not only a women’s issue. It is a leadership and community responsibility.
One death is too many. Let us remain vigilant, stay connected and keep showing up with courage, purpose and hope.
If you have information:
Please contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249, report at your nearest police station, or submit information anonymously through the MySAPS app.
Emergency: 10111 | From a cellphone: 112.
