The man accused of attempting to murder Sivenathi “Sive” Toto will finally face trial on Thursday, 18 July 2025, in the George Regional Court – marking nearly three years since the brutal assault that altered her life forever.
Sive was just 23 years old when she was attacked on 26 August 2022 in Lawaaikamp, George. According to reports, the accused, Shaun Madonono, had earlier lost a fight to Sive’s boyfriend. In retaliation, he allegedly broke into Sive’s home, dragged her to his own residence, and assaulted her until she lost consciousness. He then dumped her near a petrol station on Nelson Mandela Boulevard, where she was later found by a petrol attendant.
The consequences of that attack have been catastrophic. Sive suffered severe brain damage and is now non-verbal, permanently wheelchair-bound, and entirely dependent on others for daily care. She will never be the same again.
“This is one of the most horrific cases of gender-based violence we have ever encountered. It is an utter tragedy – and the fact that the wheels of justice have taken so long to turn only deepens the trauma,” said Kaylynn Palm, Head of Action Society’s Action Centre in the Western Cape.
Since the attack, Action Society has walked alongside Sive and her family, offering support, drawing national attention to the delays in the justice system, and demanding accountability. For nearly three years, the organisation has been a consistent voice for Sive, calling on the state to prioritise the rights of victims and to hold perpetrators fully accountable.
The court proceedings on 18 July are set to take place in the George Regional Court, following earlier appearances in the George Magistrate’s Court.
While nothing can undo the damage inflicted on Sive, a guilty verdict may at least bring some measure of justice.
“This trial is not just about one man’s actions – it’s about a justice system that must prove it will not turn a blind eye to the violence destroying lives in our communities. Sive deserves justice. South Africa deserves better,” said Palm.
Members of the media are encouraged to attend the trial to help shine a light on Sive’s story and the broader crisis of gender-based violence in South Africa.
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