President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement in November 2025 that gender-based violence and femicide are national disasters in South Africa was a significant step, but its practical implications remain unclear. In the wake of this declaration, there has been concern that despite increasing public attention to the issue, the government has de-prioritized discussions and budget allocation for combating gender-based violence in recent official addresses. The worrying trend suggests that bold statements may not translate into concrete actions or resources, raising skepticism among civil society and advocates.

The article emphasizes that tackling the issue of gender-based violence requires a comprehensive approach that involves various stakeholders, including government bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), researchers, and the private sector. The author highlights the challenges in fostering effective collaborations between these entities, pointing out that historical tensions between the state and civil society often hinder a unified response to this pressing social crisis. The need for genuine partnerships rather than mere promises is critical in any government initiative aimed at curtailing violence against women.

Furthermore, it stresses that violence against women is a complex issue that cannot be addressed by one sector alone, underscoring the importance of a coordinated and collectively resourced effort. The article serves as a call to action for all sectors of society to engage in constructive dialogue, share resources, and commit to long-term strategies that promote women’s safety and rights in South Africa, highlighting that without such collaboration, progress may remain stagnant despite high-level declarations of national importance.