Women's Rights | Womanity

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Judge Khosi Hadebe from the KwaZulu-Natal High Court. Judge Hadebe’s legal career spans decades, tracing a path of perseverance and public service that began in 1979 as a court clerk and interpreter before progressing to prosecutor, legal planner, magistrate, and ultimately High Court judge. The Spark That Lit the Journey Her passion for the law was ignited in her youth while listening to radio court scene dramas on radio like Springbok Radio’s Consider Your Verdict. Despite financial constraints that delayed her initial studies, these broadcasts cemented her determination to pursue no other path than law. Defying Hostility with Student Militancy Entering the University of Zululand during apartheid, Judge Hadebe faced outright hostility from lecturers who questioned why women were studying law instead of nursing or social work. Driven by a militant youth spirit and a shared commitment with peers, including activists connected to Robben Island political prisoners, she refused to back down, viewing her degree as a vital weapon to fight systemic social injustices. Protective Legislation and the Limits of Implementation Reflecting on South Africa’s legislative framework, Judge Hadebe highlights that while strong laws exist to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and protect vulnerable individuals, true progress relies on the people executing them. She emphasises that while police awareness and specialised units have improved, law enforcement must act as a true extension of justice rather than allowing poor attitudes to hinder survivors. The Lived Realities of GBV Victims In discussing matters like the S v Ndlovo gang rape case, Judge Hadebe points out the severe socio-economic vulnerabilities of women and child-headed households living in informal settlements without security resources. She addresses the painful reality that post-judgment, victims are largely left to figure out trauma recovery on their own due to a lack of accessible counselling and support services in underserved communities. Social Context and Integrity on the Bench Having served as a regional court magistrate and worked with the Law, Race, and Gender Institute at the University of Cape Town, Judge Hadebe brings a vital social context to her rulings. She stresses that judges must maintain impeccable personal standards of uprightness and fairness to ensure the public can trust the judicial system implicitly. Overcoming Bias and Proving Competence Addressing the unique struggles faced by African women entering the High Court bench, Judge Hadebe reflects on overcoming deep-seated institutional skepticism. She notes that women must constantly prove their qualifications at higher thresholds, asserting that female judges must stand their ground firmly and demand to be judged solely on their competence. Faith, Family, and Community Support Attributing her resilience to the "school of poverty," Judge Hadebe shares how her background fostered empathy rather than bitterness. Her strength and grounding stem from strong family support, inspired by a courageous late aunt, as well as her active involvement in her church community, where she directly assists impoverished families. A Message to the Next Generation In celebration of Women’s Month, Judge Hadebe encourages young women to step into male-dominated fields with unwavering confidence and challenge authority whenever necessary. She calls on senior women leaders to actively hold the hands of the younger generation, demonstrating that adversity should never stop them from achieving their potential. Special thanks to Lusanda Ntuli the Deputy Director: Communications at the Office of the Chief Justice who makes our annual series showcasing female judges possible. Happy Women’s Month.

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August 27, 2026

Judge Khosi Hadebe – High Court KwaZulu-Natal Division – Courage

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Judge Khosi Hadebe from the KwaZulu-Natal High Court. Judge Hadebe’s legal career spans decades, tracing a path of perseverance and public service that beg...

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, in celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, #InvestinWomen, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Ambassador of the European Union Sandra Kramer, the Ambassador of Denmark Elsebeth Søndergaard Krone, the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania Rasa Jankauskaite, the Ambassador of Austria Romana Königsbrun, the High Commissioner of Jamaica Joan Thomas Edwards and the High Commissioner of Australia Tegan Brink. The conversation touches on the persistence needed to overcome gender disparities globally. The ambassadors highlight their countries' initiatives towards gender equality and the importance of fostering strong role models for women in leadership positions. They stress the need for continuous efforts from individuals, organizations, and governments to advance gender equality, with legislation being a crucial tool in accelerating progress. The dialogue concludes with messages of empowerment and encouragement for women to lean in, pursue opportunities, and believe in their abilities. Overall, the discussion underscores the ongoing commitment to achieving gender equality worldwide. Happy International Women’s Day. Tune in for more…

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March 16, 2024

International Women’s Day 2024 Views from High Commissioners and Ambassadors

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, in celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, #InvestinWomen, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Ambassador of the European Union Sandra Kramer, the Ambassador of Denmark El...

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Judge Khosi Hadebe – High Court KwaZulu-Natal Division – Courage

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International Women’s Day 2024 Views from High Commissioners and Ambassadors

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Tag: Women’s Rights

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Judge Khosi Hadebe – High Court KwaZulu-Natal Division – Courage

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International Women’s Day 2024 Views from High Commissioners and Ambassadors

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