SOUTH AFRICA CELEBRATES WOMEN’S DAY, HONOURING A LEGACY OF COURAGE AND RESILIENCE

DURBAN, KwaZulu-Natal — South Africa today marks National Women’s Day, a significant national occasion dedicated to celebrating women while remembering the courage and determination of thousands of women who stood against apartheid oppression.

The commemoration takes place every year on 9 August, marking the historic Women’s March of 1956, when more than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.

The march was organised by the Federation of South African Women and was led by prominent activists including Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn. Their collective action became one of the defining moments in South Africa’s liberation history.

The significance of Women’s Day extends beyond remembering the events of 1956. It is an opportunity to recognise the contribution women continue to make across South African society — from politics and business to healthcare, education, community development, science, agriculture and the creative industries.

It is also a day to reflect on the challenges that continue to affect women, including gender-based violence, economic inequality, unemployment and barriers to meaningful participation in the economy.
South Africa officially celebrated its first National Women’s Day in 1995, following the country’s transition to democracy. August has subsequently been recognised as Women’s Month.

70 YEARS OF REMEMBERING THE 1956 WOMEN’S MARCH
This year carries particular historical significance as South Africa commemorates the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March. The national celebration is being held at the Union Buildings in Tshwane under the theme “Empowered Women Empower The Nation.” Government has highlighted access to quality healthcare for women as a key focus of this year’s commemoration.

The anniversary serves as a reminder that the freedom enjoyed today was built through the sacrifices of generations of South African women who refused to remain silent in the face of injustice.

As the country celebrates Women’s Day also presents an opportunity to look towards the future — one where women are safe, economically empowered, equally represented and able to participate fully in shaping South Africa.

Women’s Day is therefore not only a celebration; it is a reminder of a promise made by the women of 1956 — that women belong everywhere and that their voices must never be silenced.

NWN Media — Digital Voice of KZN
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