# Independent columnist and researcher, Lehumo Sejaphala, says South Africa must confront the deeper causes of gender-based violence and femicide, following the discovery of nine women’s bodies in and around Ekurhuleni. Sejaphala says tougher punishment alone will not end violence. He points to childhood trauma, harmful ideas about masculinity, poverty, unemployment and unequal gender attitudes as contributing factors. Sejaphala says the state must strengthen policing, investigations and accountability, while investing in education, employment, responsible parenting and programmes that challenge harmful social norms.
Researcher calls for action beyond punishment on GBVF cases