17/09/2026
This has been a week that has left everybody having whiplash moments like a horror movie.
August ended the month of awareness of women in bringing political and social awareness but that didn't deter the perpetrators.
I am visiting with my family in New Zealand, and we woke up to six women murdered by this morning Thursday NZ time it was 9 women found murdered. The pain, anguish, anxiety, shock, trauma ridden moments seem crashing like waves. A human being's nervous system can handle so much until you shut down. Demoracy gave us our freedom and rights but the cost of not being protected is severe.
My thoughts have been consumed with what is happening at home. I think of the places I travelled around in South Africa for work or social activities. Driving alone and fearless in every province, from Richards Bay, up to the University of Venda, driving around the Eastern Cape and the time I went to Zimbabwe by myself for a work assignment. There are many women just like me that have accomplished these firsts in life and there will be more.
Now in 2026 on my visit, I am moving around freely, walking into shops, visiting and having that freedom that comes with independence. This news has made start doing things I used to before. I walk with my car keys in between my knuckles. I don't wait around. An ingrained fear of being a female alone even in a foreign land.
Everyone asking why and how long will this continue? Give answers to aggrieved families and communities. Allay the fears of women commuting to and from work. Women have been vigilant from our day 1 out in this world.
Enough with the mansplaining on how to conduct ourselves.
