Student(21) stabbed to death in Rustenburg flat

BillyLouisjay August 13, 2025



Tragic Loss of Onalenna Selebogo: A Wake-Up Call on Gender-Based Violence in South Africa

The brutal murder of a 21-year-old student in Rustenburg has ignited national outrage and renewed calls for action against gender-based violence.

A Bright Future Cut Short

On 3 August 2025, the lifeless body of 21-year-old Onalenna Selebogo, a third-year Education student at North-West University’s Mahikeng Campus, was discovered in her flat in Rustenburg. Wrapped in bedsheets with multiple stab wounds to her neck, her death has sent shockwaves through her community and beyond.

Selebogo's untimely demise is not just a personal tragedy but a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV) affecting South Africa. Her murder has sparked national outrage and reignited conversations about the safety and dignity of women in the country.

The Incident: Details of the Crime

According to police reports, Selebogo's body was found on the evening of 4 August, a day after the incident. The suspect, identified as Walter Tshehlo, 28, who was reportedly her boyfriend, fled the scene but later surrendered to authorities. He has been charged with murder and is scheduled to appear in court for his bail hearing on 18 August 2025.

The circumstances surrounding the crime remain under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the motive behind this brutal act.

Community and Institutional Reactions

The murder has elicited strong reactions from various sectors of society. North-West University expressed its devastation over the loss of a promising student. Oscar Mosiane, the university's Corporate Communication Manager, stated, "Selebogo’s passing is not only a tragedy to her family and friends but also to the NWU community. She was a beautiful soul with a passion for education and a bright future ahead of her."

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) Regional Task Team in the Bojanala Region also condemned the killing, highlighting the persistent rise in GBV and sexual assault in communities. Pako Mokua, the coordinator, urged young women to exercise caution in their relationships and seek help if they find themselves in abusive situations.

National Outrage and Calls for Action

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) condemned the killing as an "appalling reminder" of the ongoing battle against GBV. The department urged communities to focus on prevention, report incidents promptly, and provide unwavering support to survivors.

President Cyril Ramaphosa also addressed the issue during the National Women’s Day commemoration in Tzaneen, Limpopo, stating that GBV "has no place in a democratic society." He called for a cultural shift in how boys and young men are raised, emphasizing the need to teach respect and consent.

The Broader Implications: A Wake-Up Call

Selebogo's murder is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address GBV in South Africa. Despite various initiatives and campaigns, the country continues to grapple with high rates of violence against women and children. This incident underscores the importance of collective action to combat GBV and ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals.

Conclusion: Honoring Selebogo's Memory

As the community mourns the loss of Onalenna Selebogo, it is crucial to channel this grief into meaningful action. Her death should serve as a catalyst for change, prompting individuals, communities, and institutions to commit to ending GBV and creating a society where women can live without fear.

In her memory, let us strive to build a South Africa where respect, equality, and justice prevail.

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