Every August, South Africa honours the courageous women who shaped the nation’s history by celebrating Women’s Month. This annual commemoration pays tribute to the more than 20,000 women who, on 9 August 1956, marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women. Their bravery and determination marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for equality and justice, and their legacy continues to inspire generations.
Theme and Significance: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development”
This year, the theme of Women’s Month is "Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development." The theme reflects on the significant strides made over the past three decades in advancing women's rights and gender equality. It also marks the 68th anniversary of the historic 1956 march, providing a moment for collective reflection on the progress made and the challenges that remain.
Premier Ntuli’s Leadership in KwaZulu-Natal
In KwaZulu-Natal, the provincial government, under the leadership of Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, is at the forefront of commemorating Women’s Month. Premier Ntuli has emphasised the importance of recognising and supporting the contributions of women in all spheres of society. He has highlighted the need for continued efforts to empower women economically, socially, and politically, ensuring they play a pivotal role in the province's development.
Premier Ntuli’s administration is dedicated to implementing initiatives that uplift women, particularly in rural and marginalised communities. His government is committed to addressing the challenges that women face, such as gender-based violence and economic inequality, through comprehensive programmes and policies. The provincial government is also focused on promoting women’s health and education, recognising these as critical areas for the empowerment and advancement of women.
Acknowledging Women as Agents of Change
Women’s Month is not just a time to reflect on the past but also a celebration of the present and future. It acknowledges women as active agents of change and social transformation in South Africa. Throughout the month, we celebrate the achievements of women in various fields, from politics and business to arts and education. It is also a time to mobilise support for ongoing efforts to further develop and empower women across the nation.
30 Years of Freedom and Democracy
This year’s Women’s Month coincides with South Africa’s commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy, making it a crucial time for introspection and evaluation. It offers an opportunity to assess how the democratic journey has empowered women and advanced their rights. The celebration also underscores the importance of gender equality as a fundamental component of democracy and social justice.
Celebrating 30 Years of the Women’s Charter
In addition to marking three decades of democracy, this year also celebrates 30 years of the Women’s Charter. Established as a cornerstone document to promote gender equality, the Women’s Charter has been instrumental in advocating for women's rights and opportunities. During Women’s Month, the focus will also be on advancing the Women’s Charter for Accelerated Development, formulated in 2021. This initiative aims to accelerate economic reforms and unlock the economic potential of women, promoting their participation and leadership in all sectors.
Activities and Programmes
The Women’s Month programme will feature a variety of socio-economic empowerment events and initiatives. These include a trade expo, showcasing women's entrepreneurial talents and innovations, a fashion show celebrating women in the creative industries, and a series of social dialogues addressing critical issues such as gender-based violence and economic inclusion. These activities are designed to highlight the contributions of women and address the challenges they face in contemporary society.
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, alongside the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, will coordinate the National Women’s Month programme. These efforts are supported by a range of government departments and various role players, demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing the status of women in South Africa.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we honour the legacy of the women who marched in 1956 and recognise the significant achievements made over the past 30 years of democracy. However, we also acknowledge the ongoing challenges and the work still needed to achieve true gender equality.
Under the leadership of Premier Ntuli, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government remains committed to supporting and empowering women, ensuring that their contributions are valued and their rights are protected. This month serves as a reminder of the power of unity and collective action in driving social change and advancing the rights and status of women in South Africa.