The Mpumalanga Provincial Government joined the nation in commemorating Women’s Day, honouring the courage and resilience of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956 and the generations of women who have continued to carry their legacy forward.
The provincial commemoration was held at Agincourt Sport Ground in Bushbuckridge, bringing together government leaders, traditional leaders and community members to celebrate the contribution of women to South African society.
The event was attended by members of the Mpumalanga Executive Council and executive mayors, including Bushbuckridge Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Lydia Moroane-Zitha.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation Leah Mabuza called on society to champion the empowerment of women across all spheres of life.
Mabuza emphasised the importance of creating opportunities that enable women to participate meaningfully in the economy, communities and leadership structures.
A message of support was delivered by Kgoshi LM Mokoena, Chairperson of the Mpumalanga House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. He reaffirmed the commitment of traditional leadership to supporting the upliftment and empowerment of women, particularly those living in rural communities.
Held under the theme “Empowered Women, Empower Nations,” this year’s commemoration served as a reminder that the progress of society must be measured by the dignity, safety and opportunities afforded to women.
The provincial government said it remains committed to working alongside women across Mpumalanga to ensure that empowerment goes beyond speeches and policies and becomes a lived reality in homes and communities.
Seventy years after the historic 1956 march, the footsteps of those women continue to inspire efforts to build a society where women are empowered, protected and given equal opportunities to contribute to the development of the province and the country.
