Thousands of women of South Africa and women leaders in government, political parties and civil society will gather at Galeshewe Township in Kimberley, Northern Cape to celebrate the centenary of the International Women’s Day on Tuesday, 8 March.
This year marks 100 years since the International Women’s Day was first observed on 8 March 1911 with women around the world demanding equal rights, a right to vote and improved working conditions.
The centenary celebrations come at an opportune time for women of South Africa as the country prepares for the Local Government Elections taking place on 18 May 2011. It is an opportunity for women to demand equal representation and to ensure that their interests are fully represented at this sphere of government.
Minister for Women, Children and People with Disabilities Lulu Xingwana said South Africa currently has 44 percent of women representation in the legislature, 43 percent in Cabinet and 40 percent of elected positions at the level of local government. These advances have mainly been due to the ruling party, the ANC, committing to the principle of 50/50 gender representation.
“These elections are an opportunity to advance towards gender parity at local government level. Women should vote for parties with a clear track record on gender and empowerment of women,” said Minister Xingwana.
Minister Xingwana, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, Northern Cape Premier Hazel Jenkins are some of the leaders expected to take part in the celebration of the International Women’s Day under the global theme: Equal Access to education and training, science and technology; a pathway to decent work for women.
Several activities have been organised in Kimberley to mark the International Women’s Day starting from March 7 to 8. Members of the media are invited to these activities taking place as follows:
|
Event |
Main speakers or participants |
Date and time |
Venue |
|
Day one (7 March) |
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|
Lunch to announce the Programme for International Women’s Day |
Sports, Arts and Culture MEC Pauline Williams |
7 March 2011 |
Ekhaya Guesthouse, Galeshewe Township |
|
Women in Dialogue Symposium – Equal Access to Education, Science and Technology |
Leaders in Government, Civil Society and Academia |
7 March 2011 |
Sterkinekor Cinema, North Cape Mall |
|
International Women’s Day Gala Dinner |
Northern Cape Premier Hazel Jenkins |
7 March 2011 |
Mayibuye Multi-Purpose Centre, Galeshewe |
|
Day two (8 March) |
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|
Distribution of Sanitary Pads to indigent learners from the !Xun and Khwe community in Platfontein |
Minister Lulu Xingwana |
8 March 2011 |
Xunkwesa Combined School, Platfontein |
|
Main National Event marking International Women’s Day |
Min Lulu Xingwana |
8 March 2011 |
Galeshewe Stadium |
For more information contact:
Sibani Mngadi
Cell: 082 772 0161
Bronwyn Thomas
Cell: 083 447 6586
