By Asanda Magadla
South Africa is a developing country with significant economic challenges. Despite this, women continue to grapple with high levels of unemployment and financial hardships as they strive to provide for their families. The month of August holds special significance as it commemorates the enduring struggles of South African women who bravely protested against unjust government laws and policies in the past. The historic 1956 march to the Union Buildings, where women rallied against the compulsory carrying of pass books, serves as a poignant reminder of their unwavering determination for equality. However, even today, acts of violence against women persist on a daily basis, highlighting the alarming prevalence of human rights violations in South Africa.
In the Western Cape Province, our female counterparts displayed unwavering solidarity with a victim of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by staging a protest outside the courthouse. The demonstration not only aimed to show support for the victim but also sought to raise awareness about the prevalent issue of GBV, especially considering the perceived inadequacies of the South African justice system in holding perpetrators accountable. These dedicated individuals are steadfast in their commitment to seeking justice for the victim who tragically lost her life at the hands of her former partner. The protesters are resolute in for justice to be served.
Carrying banners bearing poignant messages such as “Being a woman is a life sentence,” the demonstrators highlighted the grim reality that one in every three women faces the harrowing ordeal of sexual violation and murder on a daily basis. Critically observing the sluggish pace at which the government is enacting policies to address Gender-Based Violence, it is evident that urgent action is imperative. Furthermore, the lack of dedicated support facilities for victims of GBV in many local police stations contributes to the underreporting of such cases by women who feel unsupported and marginalized.
Another individual whom our sisters extended their support to was a young woman from Keiskamahoek in the Eastern Cape. On every occasion of a court hearing, the community, along with the Rural Women Assembly sisters, demonstrate unwavering solidarity towards the victim, who happens to be facing her own brother as the perpetrator. The trial for this case has been adjourned, with the scheduled date set for the 26th of August 2024.
The alarming prevalence of Gender Based Violence in South Africa is exceedingly high, prompting our sisters from the Free State to collectively voice their concerns by taking to the streets. One of their primary demands is to witness justice being served against the perpetrators, and to put an end to the scourge of GBV targeting women and children. The increased presence of law enforcement in our communities is crucial in curbing the atrocities committed against women.
On the 9th of August, a day dedicated to women’s celebration, the women of Misty Mt in Libode, located in the Eastern Cape, gathered in large numbers to commemorate the occasion with their fellow sisters. Despite facing similar challenges, women recognize the importance of unity and support, especially in the current societal climate. The Rural Women Assembly convened to interact with the local women, who eagerly embraced the opportunity as governmental workshops often exclude rural women. Beyond their visit to the Libode community, the women of the Eastern Cape also actively participated in the provincial Women’s Day Commemoration hosted by the Buffalo City Municipality. During their visit to the Mlakalaka community outside King William’s Town, they engaged in meaningful discussions with local women about the prevalent issues affecting their village. Inspired by the knowledge shared by their fellow sisters, new members joined the Rural Women Assembly.
The South African Constitution undergoes periodic amendments, yet some changes inadvertently disadvantage women. In response, our sisters from Limpopo, along with community women, took to the streets to voice their grievances to the Department of Education. This initiative stemmed from numerous complaints concerning the closure of community creches due to non-compliance. Many women, primarily single parents, heavily rely on these facilities for their livelihood. Feeling that their rights were being violated and government decisions were made without their consultation, women stood up for their cause.
Reflecting on the climate crisis that transpired in July in various parts of South Africa, our sisters revisited one of the affected areas, the Amalinda informal settlements in East London, Eastern Cape. Their purpose was to express solidarity, provide clothing, and prepare meals for the community. The Disaster Management team from the Buffalo City Municipality also extended assistance by supplying building materials to affected individuals. The crisis resulted in the loss of identity documents, school books, and uniforms for children, significantly impacting their well-being. Emotional support was offered to the community through a healing circle process. The Rural Women Assembly left a positive imprint on people’s lives, embodying the essence of “Ubuntu.”
Northern Cape province recently joined our Rural Women Assembly in June. During this month of women’s empowerment, they organized a women’s day event with the aim of uplifting women in the community. The workshop saw the participation of over 30 individuals. Our Northern Cape counterparts are diligently working towards uniting women through Agroecology workshops, training sessions, as well as other initiatives focusing on topics like Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNDROP), and Climate Change Justice. By conducting awareness campaigns in the community, they are enlightening individuals with valuable knowledge and skills.
South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of unemployment, as evidenced by recent statistical data. In Genadendal, located in the Western Cape Province, young unemployed women have taken the initiative to establish small businesses to support their families and contribute to community activities. This showcases the positive impact of our Rural Women Assembly colleagues in empowering the community through skill development workshops and training programs.
In Gauteng province, a Seed Exhibition was organized at the University of Johannesburg for a two-day workshop. Women from various regions participated in the event, which also featured guest speakers discussing the significance of seed preservation. The prevalence of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) poses challenges across most parts of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Despite the negative implications for small-scale farmers, several countries have legally recognized GMOs as viable seeds for farming. The venue was adorned with seeds and banners displaying messages of solidarity from all Rural Women Assembly country chapters. Additionally, the Provincial Coordinator from Gauteng was invited as a guest speaker on a local radio station to discuss agricultural programs. Her empowering message resonated with listeners, inspiring many women.
The month of August truly exemplifies the celebration of women, as evidenced by the numerous activities that transpired. Our SADC sisters united to show support for our counterparts in Zimbabwe through the Southern African People’s Solidarity Network (SAPSN). Although physical attendance at the summit was not feasible due to unforeseen circumstances, our women conveyed messages of support and presented demands to the Zimbabwean government. South Africa articulated specific demands to be addressed by the Zimbabwean authorities.The sisters gathered from various provinces including Limpopo, Gauteng, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape. Limpopo had 40 participants, Western Cape had 30 participants, Gauteng had 35 participants, and Eastern Cape had 30 participants. Each province conveyed a message advocating for climate justice. This year’s Southern African People’s Solidarity Network (SAPSN) concentrated on enhancing resilience in the face of climate change. Many countries in Southern Africa are currently witnessing significant shifts in weather patterns, with South Africa being notably impacted. The government’s response to climate change has been sluggish, failing to address the needs of affected communities and individuals. We urge the authorities to promptly initiate contingency measures, particularly to support women engaged in small-scale farming. Women have suffered substantial losses in livestock and crop yields due to the climate change crisis. Our demands mirror the hardships women have endured in recent years, exacerbated by the current challenges posed by the climate crisis, making it increasingly difficult for women to survive and provide for their families.
