Women in South Africa: 'We just want to be safe'
Sep 26, 2026 · 23m
Summary
This episode examines the surge in femicides near Johannesburg, featuring runners who describe the anxiety and safety protocols now required for daily activities. It includes harrowing testimonies from two survivors of domestic abuse who discuss the stigma, trauma, and systemic failures that prevent reporting. The segment also highlights the work of local organizations providing practical safety tools, from personal alarms to self-defense training, while addressing the broader cultural and governmental challenges in combating gender-based violence in South Africa.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship: Choiceology podcast
Sponsorship: Odoo business software
Introduction to The Documentary
Context: Recent femicides near Johannesburg
Runners discuss fear and safety precautions
Systemic issues, privilege, and societal change
Statistics and introduction to survivor stories
Mary: Experience of domestic abuse and police failure
Mary: Long-term impact and breaking the silence
Lizzie: Cultural stigma and supporting Mary
Lizzie: Raising a son to avoid repeating abuse
Sponsorship: Just Food For Dogs and Schwab
Promo: Global Story podcast on surrogacy
Introduction to activists Linette and Elle Marie
Organizations: Girls on Fire and Memsza approach
Practical safety tools and self-defense training
Conclusion and resources for help
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