Mpumalanga Provincial Women’s Day Event Highlights Need for Greater Inclusion of Women in Economic Sectors

Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality recently hosted the Mpumalanga Provincial Women’s Day celebration, marking 68 years since the historic women’s march of 1956. This year’s event, themed “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development,” reflected on the progress and challenges women face in various sectors.

In her compelling address, the MD of Lamatsamo Holdings extended special greetings to the distinguished attendees, including the honourable acting premier, executive mayors, heads of departments, community leaders, and all the women in attendance. Her speech was a tribute to the brave women of 1956 who stood against apartheid, recognizing their resilience as the foundation for women’s participation in male-dominated industries and economic activities today.

However, she pointed out that the fight for gender equality is far from over. “30 years into this democracy, it is disheartening that sometimes I am the only woman in certain spaces,” she remarked. She called for intentional inclusion of women through government and private sector intervention programs designed to empower women.

“Being a woman in South Africa is synonymous with being a soldier,” she continued, highlighting the daily battles against gender stereotypes, prejudice, and the severe threats of violence, including rape, trafficking, and murder.

The MD of Lamatsamo urged the provincial government to ensure women’s active inclusion in all economic sectors within the province. She advocated for a specific percentage of procurement to be reserved for women, stressing the importance of creating a future where women would not face the same challenges endured by previous generations.

Quoting Thomas Sankara, she concluded, “There is no true revolution without the emancipation of women”. 

The event also featured a keynote speech from Honourable Fidel Mlombo, the acting Premier of Mpumalanga and MEC of the Department of Culture, Sport, and Recreation. He celebrated the strides women have made over the decades, now visible in management, mining, politics, and more. He condemned gender-based violence and urged society to adopt better behaviours to protect women and children.

Women leaders from various sectors shared their stories, providing motivation and encouragement. The Gift of the Givers organization added a heart-warming touch by donating food parcels to elderly women, emphasizing the importance of community support. The Mpumalanga Provincial Women’s Day celebration highlighted significant progress while underscoring the ongoing need for dedicated efforts to ensure women’s full participation and safety in society.