Durban: Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister in the Presidency Sindisiwe Chikunga will officially launch the 2026 Women's Month campaign at the EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. According to South African Government News Agency, the EmpowerHer Market Trade Fair is a flagship government initiative, implemented in partnership with ABSA, to advance women's economic empowerment by creating opportunities for women-owned businesses to showcase their products and services, access new markets, establish business partnerships, and connect with potential investors and customers. The launch will recognise the significant contribution women make to South Africa's economy, while highlighting the persistent barriers many continue to face, including limited access to finance, procurement opportunities, markets, technology, information, and business development support. These challenges are further compounded by poverty, unemployment, unequal pay, discrimination, and gender-based violenc e and femicide (GBVF), the department said. The trade fair, taking place at the Durban Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 1 August 2026, will bring together women entrepreneurs, government departments, state entities, development finance institutions, private sector partners, civil society organisations, and members of the public to strengthen collaboration aimed at advancing women's economic inclusion and sustainable livelihoods. The event will also mark the official start of the 2026 Women's Month programme, which will be observed under the theme: "Empowered Women Empower the Nation". South Africa commemorates Women's Month in August as a tribute to the more than 20,000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women. Government declared August Women's Month, and 9 August is celebrated annually as Women's Day.