Women are making powerful strides in Africa’s energy sector, breaking down barriers and leading the way toward equality and innovation. With strong voices like Deputy Minister Judith NemadzingaTshabalala, the call for more women in leadership roles is louder than ever. Programs focused on education and mentorship are helping women gain the skills and support they need to excel, especially in fields like Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG). As women step into these roles, they bring fresh ideas and perspectives, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone. The energy industry is transforming, and women are at the heart of this exciting change.
In a groundbreaking ruling, the Free State High Court in South Africa has declared that men can now take their spouse’s surname without facing any barriers, a change that highlights the importance of gender equality. Previously, only women had this right, marking a clear discrimination against men. This decision paves the way for both partners in a marriage to choose their identity freely, moving away from outdated traditions. The court’s ruling not only recognizes personal autonomy but also sets a powerful example for future laws, urging society to embrace true equality for everyone.
The women’s empowerment discussion at the Provincial Women’s Dialogue included progress made over the past 30 years and ongoing challenges such as genderbased violence. Minister Maropene Ramokgopa delivered a moving keynote speech, paying homage to the women who paved the way for continuous initiatives to uplift and liberate women. The dialogue served as a call to action for collective efforts towards enhancing women’s empowerment and aligning policies with the National Development Plan. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done, and women’s empowerment is vital for achieving development objectives and generating economic opportunities for everyone in South Africa.
Constable Thabisa Ntyinkala is the only female member of the Tactical Response Team in the South African Police Service and an inspiring example for her colleagues. Her firm countenance, exceptional fitness, and ability to match her male colleagues’ tempo have earned her respect and made her a force to be reckoned with. Ntyinkala emphasizes the importance of physical and mental strength for women in maledominated fields and upholding professionalism at all times. Through her unwavering commitment, she is creating a path towards a more diverse and equal working environment in SAPS.
Women in South Africa have overtaken men and mixedgender couples in property ownership, with women owning 38% of all properties. This trend began in 2016 and has continued to increase, highlighting women’s financial independence and the country’s progress towards gender equality. Women are not just home buyers but also investors, using real estate as a tool for wealthbuilding and financial freedom. Despite this, women still see their properties as homes first and investments second.
The upcoming elevation of Justice Maya represents a historic change in South Africa’s judicial landscape, instilling hope and empowerment for women across the nation. South Africa’s judiciary is about to witness a pioneering moment as Mandisa Maya prepares to become the first black woman to preside over the Constitutional Court. Maya’s appointment as Chief Justice, effective August 31, 2024, follows her groundbreaking role as the first woman to head the Supreme Court of Appeal. President Cyril Ramaphosa recognized Maya’s potential to contribute to the transformation of the judiciary, calling her ascent to the apex court a beacon of determination and transformation towards gender equality.
Misha Abarder, an 11yearold girl, has shown incredible resilience and determination in pursuing her dreams of playing football. Despite facing discouragement and neglect from coaches and peers, she persevered and has been selected for the Western Province’s Schools Metro Central girls’ team. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope for other girls and is an embodiment of the shifting attitudes towards girls’ empowerment. Misha’s story ignites a spark of inspiration for every girl dreaming of success in a world that is gradually but steadily opening up to them.
The submission of the roster of proposed National Assembly members from Chief Justice Raymond Zondo symbolized a significant milestone in South Africa’s dynamic democratic voyage, highlighting the shift of legislative power and showcasing the unwavering devotion of its guardians. A Major Democratic Milestone
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro was an extraordinary trailblazer, breaking through barriers to become the first black woman appointed to South Africa’s Constitutional Court. Her legacy extends beyond South Africa, as she presided over the UN’s Internal Justice Council and was appointed as the inaugural chair of the Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in LawEnforcement by the UN Human Rights Council. Her legal philosophy centered around human dignity, and her judgments consistently championed the rights of the most vulnerable members of society. Her life and legacy serve as a potent reminder of our shared responsibility to build a society centered on true equality, liberty, and respect for human rights.
Mokgadi Semenya: An Emblem of Bravery and Perseverance Despite Unfair Obstacles in Athletics
Caster Mokgadi Semenya is an Olympic champion who has faced unfair restrictions related to testosterone levels in sports, sparking conversations on equality and fairness in sports and drawing attention from the European Court of Human Rights. Despite this, Semenya has received unwavering support from her home country, South Africa, as they strive for justice and equality. The ECHR’s Grand Chamber is due to review the issue raised by the Swiss government regarding the ECHR’s 2023 decision in a hearing scheduled for Wednesday, 15 May 2024, and Semenya’s hardships serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle for equality in sports and society at large.
Sylvia Lucas, Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, spoke at the 68th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) about the need for gendersensitive legislation. Lucas emphasized the importance of genderresponsive policymaking, poverty alleviation, advocacy for genderresponsive legislation, and women’s participation in governance. She made a strong case for revising budget policies, fiscal policies, tax laws, and macroeconomic policies to cater to genderspecific needs, and highlighted the necessity of augmenting investments in genderresponsive budget analysis and lawmaking capacities.
The City of Cape Town’s Local Tourism Forum focuses on women in the tourism industry, highlighting their valuable contributions and advocating for increased representation in leadership roles. The forum challenges gender stereotypes and sets a benchmark for creating a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable industry. The city’s commitment towards responsible tourism aligns with its dedication to gender parity, and it serves as an excellent example for other cities to follow. Although the path towards complete equality is lengthy, Cape Town’s initiative shows that the ultimate goal is within reach.
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women worldwide. This year’s theme, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” is a reminder that advancing women’s empowerment and achieving gender equality is crucial for societal advancement and economic prosperity. Pam Tshwete, the Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, is an advocate for women’s involvement in policies and regulations, empowerment programs, and establishing a Women in Human Settlements Task Team. Women in the human settlements delivery value chain plead for investment through a social compact to ensure the poor have access to adequate housing.
Minister Kubayi addressed the International Women’s Day gathering in East London, highlighting the enduring stereotypes and cultural prejudices that impede women’s advancement in sectors traditionally dominated by men. She emphasized the need to invest in women and urged women to become pioneers in the market. Despite progress in women’s rights, Kubayi drew attention to the continuing struggle with gender inequality.
The 2024 Forbes Woman Africa Awards celebrated women’s achievements in various industries, coinciding with International Women’s Day celebrations and emphasizing sustained dedication to gender parity. Minister Maropene Ramokgopa highlighted the historical roots of gender equality in Africa, advocated for progress and protection against genderbased violence, and emphasized the necessity of women’s economic empowerment and education. The event was attended by esteemed personalities and was an evening of empowerment, with a focus on the need to sustain progress towards gender equality.
The National Assembly Speaker, Ms Nosiviwe MapisaNqakula, gave a passionate call to action during the 2024 Women Speakers’ Summit in Paris, urging parliamentary speakers around the world to advocate for genderaware budgeting. She stressed the importance of incorporating a gender lens into budgetary procedures to foster gender equality and break down gender stereotypes and sociopolitical barriers. South Africa’s progress in enhancing genderresponsive budgeting has shown positive results, and MapisaNqakula implored her peers to guide their respective parliaments towards the enactment of laws and regulations that protect women’s rights.