As South Africans marked National Women’s Day on Saturday, 9 August, financial burdens were a central focus during key addresses by the country’s political leaders.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Building Resilient Economies for All.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema used the occasion to highlight the socio-economic challenges females face.
RAMAPHOSA CALLS FOR FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT
In his address, Ramaphosa said that while South Africa has made significant progress since the historic 1956 Women’s March, more must be done to empower women financially.
The president said that over the years, the government introduced the Employment Equity Act and other progressive laws that have assisted in paving the way for female empowerment.
Ramaphosa said women’s participation in the workforce continues to grow, and the public sector prioritises procurement from female-owned businesses. The president added that government support also includes skills training, entrepreneurial assistance, access to funding, and multi-sectoral partnerships.
“This is progress. But it is not enough. We cannot rest until we have achieved gender equality throughout society,” Ramaphosa said.
He urged South Africans to recommit to building a future where men and women are equal.
MALEMA MEN MUST SUPPORT WOMEN FINANCIALLY
Meanwhile, EFF leader Julius Malema echoed some of Ramaphosa’s sentiments. Speaking at his party’s commemoration, Malema highlighted the challenges women, especially domestic workers, face.
He emphasised the importance of valuing and supporting females.
“We must protect them, we must respect them, we must provide for them. Any man who doesn’t give women money is an irresponsible man – women have to receive money, especially black women,” said Malema.
He stressed the need for more opportunities for women in the workforce and added that empowerment is key to combating poverty.
DO YOU AGREE WITH THEIR REMARKS DURING WOMEN’S MONTH?
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