Thousands of people have gathered in Cape Town to protest against gender-based violence, a pervasive issue in South Africa. The demonstration, held at Sea Point Promenade, is part of the G20 women’s shutdown, an initiative by the non-governmental organization Women for Change. The organization has been advocating for the government to declare gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster, citing alarming crime statistics. According to reports, 15 women are killed and 115 rape cases are reported daily in the country.

In a related development, a petition calling for urgent government action has garnered over one million signatures. The Women for Change organization had previously handed a petition to the government on April 11, 2025, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to the issue. Supporters of the cause are encouraged to wear black to show solidarity and spark deeper conversations about the cultural roots of gender-based violence.

In other news, a 26-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a principal and an administration clerk at a primary school in Tembisa. The suspect, who is employed at the school, is expected to appear in court on Friday to face double murder charges. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, and police are continuing their investigation.

Meanwhile, a 75-year-old man was found murdered in his Table View home, with his hands and legs bound. Police have opened murder and house robbery cases, although it is unclear what was taken during the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crime.

In a separate development, residents of Bo-Kaap, a historic Muslim community in Cape Town, are calling for regulation of short-term rentals in the area. The community is concerned that the growing number of Airbnb-style accommodations is eroding their heritage and culture. While residents are not seeking a ban on short-term rentals, they are advocating for stricter zoning and rules requiring owners to live on the property. The City of Cape Town is being urged to take action to protect the community’s identity and preserve its cultural significance.