August 9, 2010 marks the 54th anniversary of the historic women's march of 1956 to the Union Buildings which saw thousands of women challenging the oppressive apartheid system and its unjust laws.
This year's anniversary takes place against the backdrop of the country having successfully hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a first for the continent.
This year, the Gauteng provincial government will, together with the City of Ekurhuleni, host Women's Day under the theme: "Ke Nak Accelerating gender equality and empowerment for Gauteng women through education and health services during 2010 to 2014".
The celebrations will be held at the Vosloorus sport grounds and will feature a service delivery exhibition. Government departments and public entities from all three spheres of government will provide a range of services including application for identity documents (IDs) and social security grants and entrepreneurial development support. Health screening services for women will also be available on site.
Activities for the day will also include sport and recreational activities such as netball, Five-a-Side soccer and different ball games.
Premier Nomvula Mokonyane accompanied by the Mayor of Ekurhuleni, Ms Ntombi Mekgwe and other Gauteng MECs, will deliver the keynote address, which will be followed by entertainment from local and top South African artists.
"Despite our democracy turning 16 years old this year, many South African women have not yet tasted the freedom for which they fought so gallantly. Disparities still exist in society, where women still remain vulnerable socially and marginalised economically," said MEC for Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation, Nelisiwe Moerane.
This year's approach for the provincial Women's Month will focus on celebrating and profiling government's achievements in advancing women's rights. This will be done through various activities planned for the month, including the launch of cooperatives run by women and the launch of a process to award female achievers in the province.
For more information contact:
Nomazwe Ntlokwana
Tel: 011 355 2578
Cell: 083 507 8068
Women's Day celebrations: taking service delivery to the people
Province
