Ramaphosa Demands Economic Revolution for South African Women

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for radical transformation to accelerate women's inclusion in South Africa's economy, addressing systemic inequalities rooted in the nation's colonial and apartheid past during his National Women's Day speech in Tzaneen, Limpopo.

Historical Legacy and Contemporary Struggle

The commemoration, marking the historic 1956 women's march against apartheid pass laws, comes amid ongoing challenges in achieving genuine economic emancipation for Black women. Like the systemic failures plaguing economic transformation projects, women's economic inclusion remains hampered by institutional barriers.

Presidential Commitment to Transformation

Ramaphosa emphasized the government's dedication to women's empowerment, stating, "We want to empower all the women in South Africa, and as we empower them, we will embark on programmes and initiatives that will enable the women of South Africa to rise."

Grassroots Mobilization and Institutional Reform

The push for women's economic inclusion parallels other movements for institutional accountability, as seen in recent governance reform initiatives across major institutions. Women's groups are increasingly demanding transparency and meaningful participation in economic decision-making processes.

Community Action and Solidarity

Across the country, women are taking collective action, exemplified by events like the Women's Race in Cape Town, which demonstrates the growing momentum behind the movement for economic justice and gender equality.