As South Africa prepares for its inaugural National Dialogue this Friday in Pretoria, President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a call to action, encouraging women across the nation to harness this opportunity to raise critical issues impacting them. This initiative, taking place within the symbolic context of Women’s Month, aims to unite South Africans in a quest for a more inclusive and equitable society.
The upcoming National Convention marks a significant step towards establishing a collaborative dialogue platform, where voices from all spectrums of society can converge to discuss their vision for a better future. In his weekly letter to the nation, President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of participation from women, stating that their experiences and challenges warrant urgent attention from authorities within this dialogue.
Drawing inspiration from the courageous women who stood against the unjust pass laws during the iconic 1956 Women’s March, Ramaphosa urged contemporary women to channel that same spirit of resistance. “Like women who protested against the unjust pass laws in the 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings, women of today must also take their plight to the authorities at the National Dialogue,” he asserted, highlighting the legacy of bravery and determination that characterises South Africa’s struggle for equality.
The President’s appeal extends to all sectors of society, calling for a commitment to ensure the vigorous participation of women during the National Dialogue. “This would be the most fitting and powerful tribute to the legacy of the pioneers of the 1956 Women’s March,” he stated, underscoring the necessity of acknowledging and addressing the issues that persist today.
Organisations from diverse backgrounds will converge this Friday, setting the stage for discussions that could shape the trajectory of South Africa’s future. The National Dialogue is envisaged as a mechanism to foster inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and every story matters. The country’s women must seize this moment to bring forth their insights, concerns, and aspirations, forging a path for meaningful change.