Lolitha Kowa (7) murder demands more than just outrage - Ilitha Labantu
Ilitha Labantu is demanding action after the brutal murder of 7-year-old Lolitha Kowa.
Picture: Pexels.com
Africa Melane (in for John Maytham on CapeTalk) speaks with Siyabulela Monakali, Communications Manager at Ilitha Labantu, an organisation advocating for the rights and safety of women and children.
Listen below:
Lolitha Kowa (7) was found with multiple stab wounds in Kuyasa, Khayelitsha, on 23 July, hours after she was reported missing.
Her body was discovered by police dogs, who led the investigators to a blood-stained mattress and other evidence at a nearby home.
“There is no excuse for someone to commit such a heinous crime, especially against a 7-year-old girl. This is still a child; she was still a baby.”
- Siyabulela Monakali, Ilitha Labantu
A man and a woman have been arrested and are set to appear in court on 25 July.
Ilitha Labantu is calling for justice, saying Lolitha’s murder is not an isolated incident.
“You don’t go a week without hearing about or witnessing crimes committed against children in South Africa. This should be a wakeup call.”
- Siyabulela Monakali, Ilitha Labantu
RELATED: Slain Jayden-Lee Meek’s mother set to resume bail application
Monakali says there is a rising trend of violence against children in South Africa, which needs a coordinated response from the government and civil society.
“This demands more than just outrage.”
- Siyabulela Monakali, Ilitha Labantu
Scroll up to the audio player for more.