Kimberley: Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has called for deliberate and accelerated action to advance gender justice, equality, women's economic empowerment, and skills development. Speaking at the National Women's Day Commemoration at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley, Northern Cape, Chikunga emphasized the need for women to be at the forefront of building resilient and inclusive economies.
According to South African Government News Agency, the event, hosted by Parliament under the theme "70 Years of Resistance, 72 Years of Vision - Advancing Gender Justice, Equality and Resilient Economies for All," highlighted both the progress made by women and the challenges that remain. It coincides with South Africa's Milestones of Freedom campaign, a year-long initiative launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which commemorates key historical anniversaries in the nation's journey to democracy and promotes community service delivery and social cohesion.
Chikunga reflected on the historical achievements since the adoption of the Women's Charter in 1954 and the pivotal 1956 Women's March against apartheid pass laws. She noted that many rights women fought for are now legally protected, with women representing 43.5% of the National Assembly and 45% of judges. Additionally, women account for over 60% of university graduates and have received 58% of the nearly 3.4 million housing subsidies since 1994.
Chikunga praised the progress made but acknowledged that significant structural barriers persist, noting that legal equality has not always translated into economic ownership and control. She stressed the importance of addressing women's relationship to land, property, and productive assets to build resilient economies.
The Minister emphasized the need for government to accelerate funded reform programs to ensure women have meaningful access to productive assets, and she highlighted the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work carried by women. She noted that the government is developing a care economy strategy to recognize, support, and pay for work sustaining households and communities.
Chikunga also stressed the importance of structured and sustained mentorship for young women, particularly in sectors like mining, logistics, energy security, and Parliament. She highlighted the Northern Cape's potential in renewable energy and called for young women from regions like Upington, De Aar, and Springbok to be actively included in the sector's growth.
For Chikunga, advancing gender equality involves not only celebrating women's achievements but also ensuring that the next generation has a significant stake in the country's economic future.