Why Women’s Safety in South Africa Remains a Daily Concern

Key Takeaways

 

·       Only 6% of South African women say they feel comfortable going out at night.

·       90% say they are afraid to be home alone.

·       Safety concerns continue to affect women’s routines, freedom and peace of mind.

·       First for Women’s research highlights the emotional and practical realities many women face daily.

·       Access to reliable safety support can help women feel more protected.

 

 

Safety concerns often shape everyday decisions

For many South African women, safety concerns do not only arise during emergencies. They can influence everyday routines in ways that often go unnoticed by others.

A late dinner with friends may require careful planning around transport. A simple trip to the petrol station at night may feel uncomfortable. Walking alone, travelling for work, or spending time at home alone can sometimes create feelings of anxiety.

These decisions may seem small on the surface, but they reflect a larger issue many women navigate daily.

 

According to the Her and Now: Insights into the Women of South Africa 2025 report by First for Women, only 6% of women say they feel comfortable going out at night, while 90% say they are afraid to be home alone.

These findings highlight an important reality. It becomes difficult for women to fully focus on growth, rest and opportunity when basic safety feels uncertain.

 

Safety affects more than physical wellbeing

When people talk about women’s empowerment, conversations often focus on career progression, financial independence and leadership opportunities. While these areas matter, personal safety remains a foundational issue that can influence all of them.

Women may decline social opportunities because they do not feel safe travelling at certain times. Others may avoid career opportunities that require late travel or long commutes. Even everyday activities such as exercising outdoors or running errands can feel different when safety concerns are constantly in the background.

The report highlights how many women are expected to succeed professionally while also navigating environments that do not always make them feel secure.

When safety feels uncertain, freedom can begin to feel restricted.

 

The emotional toll can be just as significant

The report also revealed that many women are carrying emotional responsibilities that extend far beyond personal safety concerns.

It found that:

·       34% feel emotionally drained every day

·       44% feel unsupported despite being strong for others

·       43% say they rarely get uninterrupted time for themselves

·       63% feel like the backbone of both work and family life daily

These findings paint a picture of women who are often expected to manage demanding careers, caregiving responsibilities and personal wellbeing while continuing to appear resilient.

For many women, the pressure to keep everything together can become emotionally exhausting over time.

 

 

 

Why support systems matter

 While broader societal solutions are needed to improve safety in South Africa, access to practical support can still make a meaningful difference in everyday life.

Knowing that help is available during an emergency can provide reassurance when driving alone, travelling at night or navigating unfamiliar situations.

This is why First for Women continues to offer support tools designed around women’s realities, including Guardian Angel on Call and the Panic Button.

These services are designed to provide assistance when women need urgent support or peace of mind while on the road.

Although these tools cannot solve wider societal challenges, they can help women feel more supported in moments where safety feels uncertain.

  

Safety should not stand in the way of freedom

Every woman deserves to move through daily life with confidence and peace of mind.

Whether someone is travelling to work, raising a family, building a career or simply enjoying personal time, safety should not feel like something that is out of reach.

The findings from the Her and Now report remind us that empowerment is not only about achievement. It is also about creating environments where women feel safe enough to live fully.

At First for Women, understanding women means listening to their realities and continuing to create solutions that offer meaningful support where it matters most.

  

Continue exploring the conversation

The findings shared in this article highlight just some of the realities many South African women face every day. From personal safety concerns to emotional burnout and the pressure to constantly do it all, the Her and Now report reveals a deeper conversation about what women truly need to feel supported.

If you would like to explore more insights from this research, you can read the original feature published by TimesLIVE.

Ø   Read the original article on TimesLIVE

 

 

FAQs

 

Why is women’s safety still a major concern in South Africa?

Many women continue to face safety concerns when travelling alone, commuting, socialising or spending time at home alone. These concerns can influence daily routines and overall wellbeing.

 

What did the Her and Now report reveal?

 The report found that only 6% of women feel comfortable going out at night, while 90% say they are afraid to be home alone.

 

How does First for Women support women?

 First for Women offers services such as Guardian Angel on Call and the Panic Button to provide additional safety support during emergencies.

 

Why does safety matter in conversations about empowerment?

 Women are better positioned to thrive personally and professionally when they feel safe, supported and able to move through life with greater confidence.