On 25 May 2025, South Africa was shaken by the heartbreaking news of the tragic death of 19-year-old Katlego Makuwa. Her lifeless body was discovered in her student accommodation in Carletonville, Gauteng. The brutality of the crime has left the nation reeling and reignited urgent calls to declare gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide a national crisis.

Katlego was a promising student at Westcol TVET College, Carletonville Campus. Known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to her education, she was on the path to building a bright future. That journey was horrifically cut short.

It is alleged that Katlego was raped and murdered in what has been described as a particularly violent and disturbing attack. Reports state that her body was found lying in a pool of blood, a grim and devastating scene that speaks to the horror of what she endured.

Even more distressing is the allegation that a caretaker—someone entrusted with the safety and well-being of students—was involved in this horrific act. Authorities have since confirmed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime. As the investigation continues, the community and country await justice for Katlego.

The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and outrage across social media and civil society. Hashtags like #SayHerName, #WomenForChange, #UnburyTheTruth, and #AmINext have once again surged in response to yet another life stolen by gender-based violence. These movements, led by women and activists, are not only mourning Katlego but demanding action—real, systemic change to address the ongoing epidemic of violence against women in South Africa.

Katlego’s death is not an isolated case. She joins a heartbreaking list of women and girls whose lives have been violently taken, often at the hands of people they should have been able to trust. Despite numerous campaigns, promises from authorities, and declarations of zero tolerance, the statistics continue to rise, and the stories become more gut-wrenching.

Many are now asking: How many more lives must be lost before gender-based violence and femicide are declared a national disaster? How many more daughters, sisters, and friends must we bury before decisive action is taken? The outcry following Katlego’s death reflects the deepening frustration and sorrow of a country that has seen too many lives destroyed by violence.

In remembering Katlego, we must also honor her by continuing to speak her name, demand justice, and fight for a future where women and girls can live free from fear. Her story is not just one of tragedy, but a call to all of us to rise, speak out, and refuse to accept this reality as normal.Rest in power, Katlego Makuwa. You will not be forgotten. Your life mattered. Your voice echoes in the fight for justice and change. 

• Katlego’s death is not an isolated case. She joins a heartbreaking list of women and girls whose lives have been violently taken, often at the hands of people they should have been able to trust. Despite numerous campaigns, promises from authorities, and declarations of zero tolerance, the statistics continue to rise, and the stories become more gut-wrenching.

Many are now asking: How many more lives must be lost before gender-based violence and femicide are declared a national disaster? How many more daughters, sisters, and friends must we bury before decisive action is taken? The outcry following Katlego’s death reflects the deepening frustration and sorrow of a country that has seen too many lives destroyed by violence.

In remembering Katlego, we must also honor her by continuing to speak her name, demand justice, and fight for a future where women and girls can live free from fear. Her story is not just one of tragedy, but a call to all of us to rise, speak out, and refuse to accept this reality as normal.

Rest in power, Katlego Makuwa. You will not be forgotten. Your life mattered. Your voice echoes in the fight for justice and change.