Okhahlamba, 8 August 2024 – KwaZulu-Natal Premier Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli delivered a powerful address at the inaugural Women's Parliament of the Seventh Administration, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature at the Okhahlamba Sports Complex, under the uThukela District Municipality. The event, held on Thursday, 8 August 2024, marked a significant occasion as the province geared up to celebrate Women’s Day on 9 August.

The 2024 Women’s Parliament was themed "CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY: ACCELERATE EQUITY AND STRENGTHEN WOMEN DEVELOPMENT," reflecting on the progress made since the dawn of democracy and the continuing efforts to empower women across all sectors of society.

In his address, Premier Ntuli provided a comprehensive report back on the resolutions of the 2023 Women’s Parliament, highlighting the progress made and the challenges that remain. He emphasised the government's commitment to advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women in KwaZulu-Natal.

One of the key announcements made by the Premier was the establishment of a Women’s Fund, which he pledged to launch by 30 August 2024. The fund aims to provide financial support to women entrepreneurs and initiatives that promote women’s development in the province. Premier Ntuli called upon all sectors of society, including businesses and civil society organisations, to collaborate with the government in ensuring the success of this initiative.

Addressing the issue of crime, Premier Ntuli expressed deep concern about its impact on the province's economy. He urged all attendees to join forces with government and law enforcement agencies to combat crime, which he identified as a significant barrier to attracting investment and creating jobs. The Premier highlighted that the fight against crime was crucial not only for economic growth but also for creating a safe and secure environment for all residents of KwaZulu-Natal, particularly women and children.

Premier Ntuli’s address also served as a precursor to the provincial and national Women’s Day celebrations on 9 August. He encouraged the attendees to use the Women’s Parliament as a platform to voice their concerns and propose solutions that could further the cause of gender equality. He stressed that the celebration of Women’s Day should be more than just symbolic but should be a catalyst for real change in the lives of women across the province.

The event was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including members of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, representatives from various women’s organisations, traditional leaders, and community members. The Women’s Parliament provided an opportunity for robust discussions on issues such as gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and access to education and healthcare for women.

As the province looks ahead to the future, Premier Ntuli reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to building a society where women are free from discrimination and violence, and where they have equal opportunities to thrive. He called on all sectors of society to work together in accelerating equity and strengthening women’s development, ensuring that the gains made over the past 30 years are not only sustained but expanded.

The Women’s Parliament at Okhahlamba Sports Complex was a resounding success, setting the stage for the ongoing efforts to uplift women in KwaZulu-Natal as part of the broader national agenda.