Young Gay Man Senselessly Murdered in Suspected Hate Crime in Gqeberha

A family is in mourning after Xolani Xaka, a 32-year-old member of the LGBTIQ+ community in the Eastern Cape, was stabbed to death outside his home.

According to Xolani’s cousin and family representative, Zukiswa Veto, the young man was open about his sexual identity to his community and family.

On Sunday, 18 August, at around 18:00, Xolani heard a noise at the gate of the home he shared with his uncle in Zwide, Gqeberha. It has also been reported that he may have been called to the gate.

Upon investigating, he encountered three men who repeatedly and savagely stabbed him. Xolani cried out to his uncle, who rushed out of the house to assist.

When the men threatened to stab the older man as well, he ran back inside and hid until they fled. It is understood that Xolani died at the scene.

According his Facebook page, Xolani was a fan of Beyoncé and studied Marketing and Management, although Veto said he was unemployed at the time of his death.

The motive for the attack remains unclear, but it does not appear to be related to a robbery. Activists are viewing the murder as a possible hate crime.

Ayanda Mgwadleka, the Site Coordinator of OUT’s Engage Men’s Health project in Nelson Mandela Bay, condemned the attack on Xolani, who was a client of the organisation’s services.

“We are devastated by the news of Xolani’s horrific murder. He was a valued client and a well-liked member of the LGBTIQ+ community in the area,” said Mgwadleka.

“LGBTIQ+ people should not have to live in fear of discrimination and violence simply because of who they love or their gender identity,” added Sibonelo Ncanana, OUT’s Civil Society Engagement Officer. “We call on the authorities to act with urgency to arrest and prosecute the men alleged to have callously taken another queer life.”

OUT said that it is assisting Xolani’s uncle with psychosocial support and is providing financial assistance towards the costs of Xolani’s funeral, set to take place on 7 September.

The organisation also extended its condolences to the young man’s family, friends, and all who knew him.