South Africa is once again grappling with the horrors of gender-based violence (GBV) after 27-year-old Zakithi Zasemhlungwini Ndaba was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend, Aviwe Poswa, in what advocacy groups are calling a premeditated act of femicide.
Zakithi, a journalism graduate turned culinary professional, was found shot dead in her Sunninghill, Johannesburg apartment on March 7, 2025.Her family had grown concerned when they were unable to reach her, only to have their worst fears confirmed when security personnel made the grim discovery.
Poswa, who fled the scene, later handed himself over to authorities on March 16more than a week after the murder. His bail hearing is set for March 20 at Alexandra Court sparking outrage over what activists call a system that continues to fail women.
Ignored Warnings and Alleged Threats
Friends of Zakithi have revealed chilling details, alleging that she had tried to leave Poswa, but he threatened to take their child away with the backing of his family.
One of her close friends, *Sibusisiwe Busie, took to social media with an emotional plea, stating:
Zakithi tried to leave Aviwe, but he threatened to take her child away. This was part of his plan. Aviwe Poswa planned everything. If you are a victim of Aviwe or know someone who is, please come forward. Your voice matters.
Femicide Epidemic: When Will It End?
Zakithi’s murder has reignited fury over South Africa’s unrelenting femicide crisis, with advocacy groups demanding stricter laws, urgent judicial reforms, and real protection for women trapped in abusive relationships.
Women For Change, a leading advocacy group, has condemned the murder, calling it another tragic case of a justice system that fails to act before it’s too late.
How many more women must die before authorities take decisive action against abusers? How many must live in fear of men who threaten and control them?
With a grieving family and a young child left behind, many are asking the same question: How much longer must women die before real change happens?
