South Africa: Zama’s Journey from Grief to Courage
From Tragedy to Advocacy: A Sister’s Fight for Justice
In the quiet community of Umbumbulu, South Africa, a devastating act of gender-based violence shattered lives and ignited a movement for justice. This is the story of Zama, a woman who transformed her grief into courage and became a voice for change.
Background: A Life Torn Apart
Zama’s world collapsed when her sister was brutally murdered by an abusive ex-boyfriend. Her sister had finally decided to leave the toxic relationship and went to collect her belongings. She never returned. The perpetrator tried to cover up the crime, claiming she had suffered an epileptic fit and fallen, causing fatal head injuries.
For Zama, the pain was unbearable. She was consumed by grief and guilt, questioning whether she could have done more to protect her sister. The situation was worsened by the fact that her sister’s children were still under the care of the perpetrator because their school was nearby.
When the funeral ended and the accused was arrested, Zama faced another battle. The courtroom. At the first hearing, seeing the accused and his family supporting him was too much to bear. Overwhelmed, Zama broke down and stormed out, vowing never to return.
The Turning Point: Support That Heals
This was when Uthando Restoration Centre stepped in. Recognising the emotional weight Zama carried, the team provided compassionate support and referred her to a Lifeline social worker for trauma counselling. They reassured her that she was not alone.
Gradually, Zama regained her strength. With ongoing emotional support and accompaniment to court, she began attending hearings again. This time with confidence and determination. No longer intimidated by the accused or his family, Zama stood firm. Meanwhile, Uthando Restoration Centre mobilised the community to oppose bail for the perpetrator.
They launched an online petition and organised protests outside the court. Seeing this solidarity gave Zama courage. Eventually, she joined the demonstrations herself, holding placards and demanding justice, not only for her sister but for all women silenced by violence.
In collaboration with the investigating officer, a facilitated meeting between Zama and the accused was arranged as part of her healing process. Though he denied the crime, Zama faced him without fear—a powerful moment of reclaiming her agency.
The Change: From Silence to Strength
Today, Zama is no longer paralysed by grief. She attends court proceedings, participates in protests, and speaks out against gender-based violence. Her transformation is a testament to the power of sustained, community-based support.
Her family has found solace, and the broader community has become more engaged in GBV-related justice actions. Mobilisation efforts have sparked awareness and collective responsibility, proving that change begins when one voice refuses to be silenced.
Voices of Change
Your support has made such a difference for our family. Without it, I don’t think I would have come this far — Zama
Just your presence in court makes everything feel easier to face — Zama
Thanks to Uthando Restoration Centre, I can complete my diploma in Financial Management thanks to my stipend — Andile
Sustainability and Next Steps
Building on this progress, Uthando Restoration Centre is working to formalise a Rapid Response Team through a co-developed Terms of Reference with government departments. This will strengthen accountability and ensure swift action in GBV cases. The organisation also plans to expand social enterprise initiatives such as solar-powered kiosks and internet service hubs to empower women economically and sustain operations. Survivors will be mentored as key drivers of these projects, aligning with the 5th Pillar of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF.
At a broader level, advocacy will deepen, leveraging national campaigns like #NotFitForPurpose to amplify grassroots voices. With strengthened governance, diversified funding, and capacity building, Uthando Restoration Centre aims to create a replicable model for community-led justice and healing.
By: Mavis Dlamini