Pretoria: Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, will on Wednesday lead a National Press Club Women's Month Distinction Dialogue, commemorating 70 years since the historic 1956 Women's March. The dialogue, held in partnership with the University of South Africa's School of Business and Leadership, will bring together representatives from government, the media, civil society, business, academia, and other stakeholders.

According to South African Government News Agency, the event, themed 'Empowered Women Empower the Nations', will reflect on South Africa's journey since the Women's March and explore what more needs to be done to advance gender equality, women's leadership, economic empowerment, and social inclusion. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities stressed the importance of translating the legacy of the women of 1956 into tangible action that improves the lives of women and girls who continue to face challenges such as poverty, unemployment, gender-based violence, discrimination, and exclusion.

The event will recognize the historic contribution of South African women and reaffirm the responsibility of the present generation to ensure that the sacrifices and courage of the women of 1956 continue to shape the future of the nation. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 9 August 1956, a pivotal protest against apartheid pass laws by women from across South Africa.

The march united women across racial and social lines and remains a symbol of women's courage, unity, and resilience. Women marched under the Federation of South African Women, delivering petitions against the extension of pass laws to African women, which inspired the rallying cry, 'Wathint' Abafazi, Wathint' Imbokodo', meaning 'You strike a woman, you strike a rock'.

In commemoration, 9 August is celebrated as National Women's Day, and the month is observed as Women's Month. This year's anniversary, or Platinum Jubilee, carries added significance under the theme: 'Empowered Women, Empower Nations.' Throughout Women's Month, various activities have celebrated women's contributions to South Africa's development while highlighting ongoing challenges.

The dialogue at the UNISA School of Business and Leadership in Midrand is expected to build on these discussions and reaffirm the importance of women's empowerment in national development.