“Wathinta abafazi, wathinta imbokotho!” This powerful protest chant echoed through the streets on August 9, 1956, when thousands of brave women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa. They stood united in demanding changes to the oppressive pass laws that restricted their freedom. These laws required all black individuals to carry special identification documents, proving they were allowed to enter designated areas reserved for white people. It was a dark time in our history, deeply rooted in the apartheid era, which severely limited the movement of black individuals.
Among the fearless leaders of this historic march were Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn. Together, they were supported by around 20,000 women, all rallying with over 100,000 signatures on a petition for change.
Fast forward to 1994, when South Africa emerged from the shadows of apartheid. Since then, National Women’s Day has been celebrated every year, serving as a powerful reminder of the incredible contributions women make to society and the ongoing fight for women’s rights across all backgrounds, races, and cultures.
This year marks a thrilling milestone: 30 years since the inception of National Women’s Day celebrations! Get ready for an array of exciting events across South Africa that honor women’s talent and strength. Don’t miss the **Basadi in Music Awards**, where female musical talent will shine, hosted by the fabulous Unathi at the Joburg Theatre.
Join in the festivities at **KwaGogo**, headlined by international DJ sensation Dbn Gogo at Local D Field in Pretoria, or groove to the beats at the **Zee Nation Fest**, a vibrant music and lifestyle festival led by the renowned producer and businesswoman DJ Zinhle at the Nasrec Expo Centre.
And let’s not forget **SheFest**, which features a series of empowering events, including a mental health dialogue at Constitutional Hill and a Divas concert featuring headlining artists like Thandiswa Mazwai and Makhadzi. You can also kick off Women’s Day with a morning celebration at **Good Morning with Until Until**, featuring the amazing Zoe Modiga and Babalwa M at The Campus.
Women are the very essence of humanity—nurturers, caregivers, and pillars of strength. They plant seeds of hope and grow the fruits of love and resilience. Women deserve more than just a day of celebration; they deserve a lifetime of recognition. After all, from women, we all rise. Touch a woman, and you strike a rock!
Written by Caroline Sisipho Nyamela
