Honouring Women’s Month with strength, beauty and unity

August is a significant month in South Africa as it’s dedicated to celebrating Women’s Month, paying tribute to the pivotal role women played in the struggle against apartheid and other forms of discrimination. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasizes the need to speed up progress toward gender equality and address issues like the gender pay gap, lack of representation, and gender-based violence.

The month-long celebration commemorates the historic march of over 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on August 9, 1956, where they protested against the pass laws enforced by the apartheid government. The women’s courage and strength are symbolized by the iconic phrase “Wathint’Abafazi, Wathint’imbokodo!” meaning “You strike a woman, you strike a rock”.

Key Focus Areas for Women’s Month:

• Economic Empowerment: Supporting women’s economic development, increasing access to funding, and promoting entrepreneurship
• Gender-Based Violence: Raising awareness and working to prevent violence against women and children
• Women’s Health: Focusing on women’s health issues, including HIV/AIDS and reproductive rights
• Education and Leadership: Promoting education and leadership opportunities for women
• Rural Women’s Development: Supporting rural women’s development, land reform, and food security

Celebrations and Events:

• Women’s Day events, conferences, and dialogues
• Trade expos and fashion shows showcasing women’s entrepreneurship
• Awareness campaigns on domestic violence and abuse
• Community events and activities promoting women’s empowerment

As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s honor the legacy of the brave women who paved the way for future generations and continue to push for a more equal and just society.

Sisters in Innovation: 20 Women Inventors You Should Know