Pretoria - Government says it has seen the unity shown by South Africans during the celebration and commemoration of Women’s Month.
Acting Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams has commended the efforts made during Women’s Month, which were aimed at advancing the course of women emancipation and empowerment.
Various government departments, municipalities, state-owned entities, private sector, non-governmental organisations including faith-based organisations and institutions of higher learning observed the commemoration of the Women’s March in 1956 against the unjust laws.
August saw women in various fields being honoured in their respective fields such as the Women in Science Awards and the Women in Sports Awards.
Law enforcement officials contributed to the commemoration of Women’s Month by holding an Operation Fiela multidisciplinary operation led by women in different areas across the country.
But the highlight of this year’s Women’s Month, Williams said, was the release of the first Government Report on the Status of Women in the South African economy.
“This serves as a baseline document for the work to promote the socio-economic empowerment of women and gender equality, and to advance their human rights.”
Government has also applauded those who blew the whistle against the scourge of women and child abuse.
“The fact that Women’s Month came to an end, it does not mean that we should not celebrate women and also condemn those who subject women to different forms of abuse – be it physical, emotional and financial abuse, or any other form of oppression,” Williams said.
Government has put in place various legislations aimed at protecting and empowering women.
“The promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment is central to government’s efforts to combat poverty and stimulate sustainable development,” she said, adding that government policies put great emphasis on the full participation of women in the economy so that the country can create an inclusive economy where women have equal opportunities.
However, government is of the view that the empowerment of women is not only its responsibility, but all stakeholders including, academia, business and civil society work together to move women forward.
“We reiterate the call to work together in building this country. Government cannot do it alone. Working together we can do more,” added Williams. - SAnews.gov.za
