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Molewa celebrates Women's Day with 1956 struggle icons
7 August 20007
North West Premier, Edna Molewa, will lead the people of the North West as they celebrate Women's Day on Thursday, 9 August 2007 from 09h00.
Under the theme: 'Building the unity of women emerged in their diversity,' the provincial event will be held in Lekgopung village near Zeerust. The event will be used to pay tribute to thousands of women in the North West who, through their sweat and blood, have helped to lay a firm foundation for a free, democratic and caring society.
The area of Lefurutshe in Zeerust has produced a number of women veterans who took part in the march to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. These women will be sharing their experiences with the audience on Thursday. The provincial government believes that these unsung heroes of our struggle against the unjust pass laws laid a solid foundation for the country's new dispensation.
For the North West, Women's Day comes a few weeks after the Public Service Commission declared the North West as the leading province with more women in high positions. Women in the North West hold 33,4% of senior positions.
Women occupy influential positions in the provincial government and play an important role in decision-making processes. Opportunities previously limited to men are no longer their exclusive preserve. The vast gender gap that existed is rapidly narrowing as women's positions continue to get better.
"We are encouraged by the results of the survey, which is an independent confirmation of the progress we are making as a province to improve the lives of women." said North West Premier, Edna Molewa.
"Whilst we have registered much progress in the area of women empowerment, challenges still remain. We must collectively renew our pledge to continue building a better life for all women," said the Premier. "Let us use August month as a platform to deepen our commitment and accelerate our advance towards a better society for all our people, including women," urged Molewa.
Enquiries:
Cornelius Tanana Monama
Spokesperson
Tel: 018 387 3456
Cell: 082 578 4063
Issued by: North West Provincial Government
7 August 2007