Johannesburg: As the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, South Africa has declared gender-based violence a national disaster. The alarming rate of violence against women has reached a critical point, with reports indicating that 15 women are killed in the country every single day.

According to France24.com, the declaration comes amid a global awareness effort to combat violence against women, underscoring the urgency and severity of the situation in South Africa. The country is grappling with a crisis that has demanded immediate action from both the government and civil society to address the pervasive issue of gender-based violence.

In related news, 24 schoolgirls who were abducted in Nigeria’s Kebbi State have been successfully rescued. This development brings relief to the families and communities affected by the abductions, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat kidnappings and improve security in the region.

Meanwhile, efforts to broker peace in Sudan have faced setbacks. Washington’s latest ceasefire proposal has been rejected by both warring sides, prolonging the conflict and complicating international efforts to bring stability to the region.