Josina Z. Machel, stepdaughter of the late South African liberation icon Nelson Mandela, has become a prominent voice against gender-based violence (GBV) following a brutal assault in 2015 that resulted in the loss of sight in one eye. The incident, which occurred in Mozambique, led to a highly controversial court case against her former partner, Rofino Licuco, drawing international attention to the challenges of securing justice for victims of domestic abuse, even for those with significant public profiles.
Machel, the daughter of Graca Machel and the late Mozambican President Samora Machel, hails from a lineage deeply rooted in activism and the fight for human rights. Her personal ordeal has tragically underscored the pervasive nature of violence against women, demonstrating that even individuals connected to such powerful legacies are not immune to its devastating impact. This stark reality has further fueled her unwavering commitment to advocating for gender equality and accountability.
The assault took place in October 2015 when Machel requested Licuco to drop her off at her mother’s residence after an evening out. According to her account, this request reportedly enraged Licuco, who then allegedly attacked her, punching her twice in the face. The severity of the blows led to irreparable damage to her left eye, necessitating multiple surgeries and ultimately resulting in permanent blindness in that eye.
Following the assault, Machel pursued legal action against Licuco in Mozambique. However, the court case concluded with a verdict that dismissed her claims due to what was cited as a “lack of evidence.” In a deeply contentious ruling, the court suggested that Machel’s intoxication at the time of the incident might have contributed to her injuries, thereby absolving Licuco of responsibility for the severe harm she sustained.
This judicial outcome ignited widespread outrage and prompted a critical examination of the justice system’s approach to gender-based violence. Despite testimony from ophthalmologists presented by the prosecution, which reportedly confirmed that the injury was consistent with a direct physical blow, the court chose not to accept this evidence. Critics argued that the ruling not only failed to provide justice for Machel but also perpetuated a culture of impunity for perpetrators of domestic violence.
The challenges Machel faced extended beyond the courtroom, including the reported disappearance of her police case file—an unfortunate occurrence frequently cited by victims of domestic abuse in the region. Furthermore, a significant sum of money awarded to her during the initial stages of the legal proceedings was never repaid. These systemic failures collectively highlight the formidable obstacles confronting victims seeking redress and accountability.
Machel’s experience resonates with the broader societal issue of pervasive gender-based violence in Southern Africa, where patriarchal norms often contribute to a culture that normalises aggression against women. Her case, despite her prominent family ties, reflects the struggles of countless women who navigate complex legal systems and societal biases in their quest for safety and justice, often with far less public support or visibility.
Since the assault, Josina Machel has transformed her personal tragedy into a powerful platform for advocacy. She has become an outspoken champion for survivors of GBV, relentlessly campaigning for stronger legal frameworks, improved judicial processes, and greater societal awareness. Her work aims to dismantle the structures that enable violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, while empowering other victims to seek justice.
Her activism draws heavily on her family’s legacy of fighting for justice and human dignity. By sharing her story, Machel seeks to challenge the silence surrounding domestic violence, encourage open dialogue, and inspire collective action to protect women and girls from abuse. Her efforts are a testament to her resilience and her determination to bring about meaningful change in the fight for gender equality across the continent.
Josina Machel’s ongoing struggle for justice serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring battle against gender-based violence. Her journey, from a victim of a brutal assault to a leading advocate for change, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in legal systems and societal attitudes to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, can live free from violence and receive equitable justice.
