Johannesburg: Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga will preside over the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Women's Day Parade at the Air Force Base Mobile Deployment Wing in Swartkop on Monday. Held under the theme: 'Balance the Scales: Rights. Justice. Action. - GIVE TO GAIN,' the parade is designed to provide a platform for the military community to pay tribute to women who have dedicated their lives to defending the nation.
According to South African Government News Agency, the tradition of honouring women in the Defence Force through an all-women parade was established in 2011 by a resolution from the then Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. This annual event serves as a prestigious conclusion to National Women's Month celebrations, reflecting the commitment to recognize the contributions of women in the military.
This year's Women's Month is observed under the theme: 'Empowered Women Empower the Nation.' On 9 August 2026, South Africa commemorated 70 years since the historic 1956 Women's March, which saw over 20,000 women unite against unjust pass laws, showcasing courage, resilience, and collective activism in the fight for freedom and equality.