As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Greater KOKSTAD Municipality joins the nation in honouring the courage, resilience and leadership of the women of 1956, whose sacrifices laid the foundation for the freedom and opportunities enjoyed today.
This year’s national theme, “Building Resilient Economies for All,” reminds us that meaningful progress is achieved when women are fully included in economic development, leadership, entrepreneurship and decision-making. Women are the backbone of families, communities and local economies.
However, many women continue to face significant socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, poverty, limited access to economic opportunities, barriers to entrepreneurship, and the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work. In rural and small-town communities, these challenges are often intensified by inequality, limited market access and financial constraints. A resilient economy cannot be built while women remain on the margins of economic participation.
The empowerment of women is not only a matter of social justice; it is a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, stronger households, improved food security and community development. When women have access to skills, employment, business opportunities and financial inclusion, entire communities benefit.
Greater Kokstad Municipality remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports women’s economic participation and social advancement. Through local economic development initiatives, support for small businesses, skills development programmes, Expanded Public Works Programme opportunities, youth and women empowerment initiatives, agricultural support programmes and partnerships that promote entrepreneurship, the municipality continues to contribute towards reducing poverty and creating sustainable livelihoods for women across the Greater Kokstad area.
The municipality also recognises that economic empowerment must be accompanied by social protection and dignity. Efforts to improve infrastructure, access to basic services, community development programmes and support for vulnerable households are essential in building resilient communities where women can thrive.
Investing in women is an investment in stronger families, safer communities and a more inclusive local economy. In this Women’s Month, Greater Kokstad Municipality calls upon government, business, civil society and communities to work together to create opportunities that enable women to participate meaningfully in the economy.
Let us support women-owned businesses, mentor young women, invest in skills development, promote financial inclusion and stand united against gender-based violence and all forms of discrimination that continue to undermine women’s progress.
May this month inspire every woman and girl in Greater Kokstad to pursue her aspirations with confidence, knowing that her contribution is vital to the future of our municipality and our nation. Together, let us build resilient economies that leave no woman behind and create a future where every woman could succeed, lead and prosper.
Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo!
