MEC Leah Mabuza encourages Bushbuckridge women to stand up for their rights

Women have been urged to take pride in themselves, speak out against gender-based violence and make use of opportunities that can improve their lives.

The call was made during a Women’s Day commemoration in Bushbuckridge on August 9, where the MEC for culture, sport and recreation, Leah Mabuza, focused on the challenges facing women in South Africa while recognising the important contribution they continue to make to society.

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The MEC emphasised that Women’s Day should be more than an annual celebration. It should be a time to reflect on the challenges women face and take meaningful steps towards creating a safer and more equal society.

A key concern raised was gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), which continues to affect women and girls across the country.

Mabuza stressed that fighting GBVF cannot be left to government alone. Families, communities, organisations and individuals all have a responsibility to challenge violence and help create safer environments for women and children.

MEC highlights economic empowerment

Highlighting the importance of women’s economic empowerment, Mabuza encouraged women to take advantage of opportunities in education, skills development, employment and business to help them become financially independent and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

“Women must take pride in themselves and know their worth,” said community member Mbali Mahlangu. “We must not be afraid to speak up when we experience gender-based violence. Our voices matter, and when we speak, we can help another woman find the courage to speak up.”

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Mahlangu added that women should support one another and communities should take reports of abuse seriously.

“Standing together gives us strength. We need to create communities where women feel safe enough to speak about what they are going through and where they know that they will be supported,” she said.

Community member reflects on ongoing challenges

Another community member, Ntombizodwa Madonsela, spoke about the challenges women continue to face in South Africa, including violence, poverty, unemployment and inequality.

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Madonsela acknowledged the progress made by women over the years, but said more needs to be done to ensure that women are safe, respected and given equal opportunities.

“Women have come a long way, but we are still facing many challenges. We appreciate that government continues to recognise and honour women, because days like this give us an opportunity to reflect on where we come from, where we are now and where we still need to go,” said Madonsela.