Cape Town – A prominent scientist recently honoured among South Africa’s top 200 young leaders Dorcas Lekganyane was tragically murdered in Bramley, Johannesburg, reports said on Sunday.
Last night was incredible!
I was reminded to keep having the audacity to take up space!
It is a great honour to be named @mailandguardian’s 2024 top 200 Young South Africans in the “Climate Change & Environment” category.
#WinnerClub #inspiration #Friday #Science pic.twitter.com/INUuwBzpHI— Dorcas Didi Lekganyane (@didi_lekganyane) June 28, 2024
Police Lekganyane’s partner has been arrested for the crime following a domestic violence incident.
“Police are investigating a murder docket after responding to a domestic violence incident… A 32-year-old woman was found dead.
“Her partner was also found in the house and he was taken to a local hospital where he was placed under police guard. He will be charged with murder and will appear in court soon,” Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza said, according to Sowetan Live.
The family described her death as senseless violence, mourning the loss of a respected figure known for her contributions to traditional medicine and environmental science.
Lekganyane had been recognised for her advocacy and research, including prestigious awards for her work on medicinal plants.
Take a look at some reactions on social media following her death:
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our dear friend, Dorcas Didi Lekganyane, a cherished member of the ACDB family with whom we shared countless memories. Her kindness and warmth touched us all. Didi was truly amazing and will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/I4NTSecgnX
— ACDB lab (@acdblab) July 12, 2024
WHEN WILL IT EVER STOP? WHEN WILL MEN STOP KILLING WOMEN? HOW MANY WOMSN MUST DIE UNTIL WE CHANGE OUR LAWS AND MAKE THEM HARSH TOWARDS SUCH CRIMES? HOW MANY R.I.P’ RETWEETS AND SHARES WILL IT EVER TAKE? REST IN PEACE DORCAS DIDI LEKGANYANE. #RipDLekganyane #RipDidiLekganyane pic.twitter.com/bJ6Z9gM6wI
— Stash Sgantsontso (@Jay_Stash) July 13, 2024
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu