He called for a renewed, collective commitment from South African men to confront and dismantle the country’s gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) crisis. Addressing more than 4,500 participants at the Free State provincial men’s indaba at Lemo Green Park, Ramaphosa said, “Men must step forward as active partners in building safe communities.” 

The indaba, attended by government leaders, political parties, faith communities, civil society, sports organisations and young men, aims to promote positive masculinities and mobilise multisectoral action during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. 

Ramaphosa addressed more than 4,500 participants at the Free State provincial men’s indaba. Photo supplied

Recent crime statistics for the first two quarters of the 2025/26 financial year show increases in contact sexual offences and attempted sexual offences.

“Men must respect the women of South Africa. They are the most valuable asset this country has,” said Ramaphosa. “We can talk the whole day, but what this country needs is action.

“The recent crime statistics for the first two quarters of 2025/26 paint a worrying picture. Every day across this beautiful country of ours, the safety and dignity of women and children are being undermined by the actions of violent men.” 

The president added, “As I’ve said many times in the past, gender-based violence is not a problem of women. Gender-based violence is the actions of men, and the terrible crimes that men commit against the women of our country.”

Meanwhile, the province’s fight against GBVF has been bolstered by the official launch of the Botshabelo Sexual Offences Court.

The facility, officially opened on Thursday (4 December), aims to provide specialised support to survivors while improving conviction rates in cases of sexual violence. Free State premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, Mangaung mayor Gregory Nthatisi and minister of justice Mamoloko Kubayi presided over the opening ceremony.

Letsoha-Mathae emphasised the severe impact of sexual violence, stating that it constitutes one of the most devastating offences in society.

“It impacts not just the individual survivor but also families, communities and the nation at large. Survivors frequently encounter prolonged delays, secondary trauma, stigma and barriers that impede their access to justice,” she said. 

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh