Cape Town – Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has condemned the brutal murder of 25-year-old Nontobeko Cele by Sibusiso Lawrence Ntaka, emphasising the need for continued efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV).
Cele’s boyfriend, Sibusiso Lawrence Ntaka, allegedly killed her and posted a confession on social media before taking his own life.
Ntaka was later discovered hanging from a tree on Wednesday, close to the location where Cele’s body was found.
Chikunga stressed the need for year-round activism against GBV.
“This incident, which occurred shortly after the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, is a devastating reminder of the need to accelerate our efforts to address gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
“As a nation, we must move beyond 16 Days and commit to 365 Days of Activism to eradicate this scourge,” the minister said.
She added: “This tragic case underscores the urgency of our call to action. It is a stark reminder that, while we are making strides in mobilising communities, more needs to be done to ensure these commitments translate into lasting change.”
She also criticised the misuse of social media to glorify violence.
“The exploitation of social media to glorify violence must be stopped. Platforms must take stronger measures to prevent the sharing of harmful content and ensure [that] the dignity of victims and their families is protected.”
Chikunga emphasised the urgency of addressing GBV through community-based efforts and stronger policies, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, where GBV rates are alarmingly high.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
