Daily Digest | South Africa is facing a persistent challenge of unresolved trauma that contributes to cycles of violence

A 2024 Human Sciences Research Council survey found that one in three South African women has experienced physical violence. Between July and September 2024, 957 women were murdered and over 10 000 rapes reported. Episodes of xenophobic violence in 2008, 2015, and 2019 displaced thousands, left many dead, and left long-lasting scars on communities. These statistics highlight how past trauma continues to shape the everyday life in South Africa. Jones Netshipise and Mpho Mashita talk to the founder of Institute for Healing of Memories, Father Michael Lapsley about how healing past traumas could help South Africa become a better place.