KZN Premier concerned about GBV over festive season

As South Africans embrace the festive cheer and celebrate Christmas Day, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has raised concern over continued incidents of gender-based violence (GBV).

On Wednesday, Ntuli spent the day in his hometown of Vumanhlamvu in northern Nkandla, KZN, as part of his festive celebrations.

During his time there, he addressed the abuse of women and children in the province, labelling it “unbearable”. 

For years, KZN has experienced GBV-related attacks, with the eThekwini municipality listed as one of the districts where the highest number of cases are recorded.

After handing out gifts to community members in his home village, Ntuli urged families to unite and stand together during this festive season to ensure the protection of women and children.

Ntuli referred to the December 2024 murder of 23-year-old Ayabonga Mjilo, who was killed allegedly by her former colleague Mfanafuthi Kunene.

Her body was found buried in a shallow grave in Inanda, north of Durban. 

The premier says women are not free. 

“Women are facing a difficult situation, and our children too, because this starts as a small thing and no one pays attention. For example, being slapped by their lover.” Ntuli said.

He also urged community members to not wait for GBV to enter their homes or affect their loved ones for them to know it is real, calling for the scourge to be prevented in all ways.