BOPHELONG. -August is dedicated to women from all walks of life. In celebration of this year’s Women’s Month, The Gauteng Department of Social Development (DSD) together with various Non-Profit Organizations in Sedibeng recently gathered at the Bophelong Community Hall.

The objective was to highlight challenges faced by women across the spectrum of society.

More than 300 women including young girls from in and around Bophelong heeded the call to receive messages of hope and guidance from other women.

Speaking during the event, DSD Social Worker, Ouma Malimabe, said while the event aims to celebrate and acknowledge the women’s achievements, the department also wants to use the month’s activities to address matters related to gender-based violence (GBV).

Malimabe said the event is not only a celebration but also serves as a recognition of the resilience of South African women in their struggle for women’s total emancipation and equal rights.

Malimabe added that young women need to focus on upskilling themselves to be empowered to break the cycle of abuse due to being dependent on others.

“As the department, we found it fit for us to come here today to celebrate Women’s Month, it’s important for women to gather so that they share experiences of violence they face and how we can work together in curbing the scourge of violence against them”, she said.

Malimabe urged women to stand up and fight against abuse that is committed against women and children. She encouraged the unity of women against gender-based violence and femicide.

“The struggle continues against poverty, oppression, discrimination, inequality, stereotyping, rape, assaults, and femicide.”