In response to alarming femicide rates believed to be five times higher than the global average, women in South Africa are increasingly turning to self-defence training as a means of protecting themselves. They are participating in martial arts and firearm training classes, seeking empowerment and safety in a country plagued by high levels of violence against women. The decision to acquire these skills is often fueled by personal experiences and the overwhelming fear that they face daily in their homes and communities.

During a recent training session at an outdoor shooting range near Pretoria, a group of these women practiced shooting 9mm guns under the guidance of their female instructor. This initiative reflects a broader trend where women are strategically responding to their vulnerable situations by learning how to defend themselves against potential attackers. The crime landscape in South Africa is daunting, encompassing various violent contact crimes and home invasions, leading many women to feel unsafe even in their own residences.

The empowerment that comes from self-defence training not only provides practical skills but also fosters a sense of resilience and community among participants. As they learn to fight back, these women are reshaping their narratives from being victims to survivors, advocating for their right to safety and reclaiming their power in the face of an oppressive environment. Their journey highlights the urgent need for systemic changes to combat gender-based violence, yet it also underscores the importance of individual empowerment as a means of survival in a precarious reality.