After deaths of nine women, South Africans gather to run, mourn and demand change, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/world/africa/deaths-nine-women-south-africans-gather-run-mourn-demand-change-rcna598676)

The report covers nationwide grief and protests across South Africa following the murders of nine women near Johannesburg, which reignited public outrage over persistent gender-based violence and femicide.

Key Details of the Story

• The Killings: Over a two-month period, police discovered the bodies of nine women in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg. Most victims were in their 20s and 30s; several were found stripped of their clothing and showed signs of sexual assault. Authorities have been investigating whether the killings are connected.

• Memorial Runs and Vigils: In response, communities organized memorial runs, vigils, and demonstrations across cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. A primary memorial run honored Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a runner who vanished while jogging and was later found dead. Participants dressed in black, lit candles, and marched under banners declaring “Enough. Stop Femicide.”

• Public Outcry: Protesters and advocacy organizationsincluding the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation and Women for Changeexpressed frustration over the constant threat of violence women endure during routine activities, whether exercising, commuting, or being at home. Activists sharply criticized police advisories telling women to avoid walking or running alone, arguing that authorities must stop placing the burden of safety on potential victims.

• Government and Policing Challenges: President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the country could not become desensitized to such brutality and promised comprehensive investigations. However, critics pointed to chronic shortcomings in law enforcement, where systemic issues, resource shortages, and corruption leave only about one in ten murders solved nationwide, despite gender-based violence previously being declared a national disaster.