Today, South Africa pays homage to its women. On 9 August 1956, more than 20,000 South African women from all races led by Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This was to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act of 1950. This act was referred to as the "pass laws.' The 20 000 women stood silently for 30 minutes with the 14 0000 signatures and started singing a protest song that was composed in honour of the occasion: Wathint'Abafazi Wathint'imbokodo! (You strike a woman, you have strike a rock). This day was officially made Women's Day by the South African Democratic government.Male celebrities share with ZiMoja what this day means for them.
MTHANDAZO GATYA
(Singer and Songwriter)
Mthandazo said today is an important day celebrating brave and courageous women who marched to the Union buildings, protesting against racial segregation. "It's important for us to celebrate those women who showed character and stood."
Message to Women: We appreciate you, we understand your strength and we believe with women's leadership, the country could go far.
THABO "SMOL' MABONGWANE
(Producer and Drummer)
According to Thabo, women of South Africa, have been beacons of hope, and our rocks since 1956. "They have shown us what it means to be strong, proud, and unapologetically African. We salute you! Strong Black women have been the pillars of our communities, passing down traditions, values, and wisdom to future generations."
Message to Women: Your selflessness, love and guidance have shaped the fabric of our society, and we are forever grateful. Today and every day, we celebrate your contributions, your sacrifices, and your unwavering commitment to keeping our culture alive.
ZULUBOY
(Rapper)
Zuluboy sees Women's Day as a time to reflect on all the beautiful women that raised him, his four daughters, his grandmother, relatives, and the woman who helps him to navigate life. "But the source of reflection is about the woman who gave birth to me, who is no longer on earth. So when it's Mother's Day and Women's Day, I tend to reflect on that a lot. It means I need to think of the values of the woman who raised me as it's a reflection of her and how I can then transfer that to the next generation."
Message to Women: Let's take care of each other. Men take care of women and vice versa. It's a two-way street. Men really need you with the challenges in our society and day-to-day lives. To children; let your mothers be your best friends, spend more time with each other. In 300 years, all the houses we fought for, someone else will be living in them. Let us value the things that matter the most.
TK NCIZA
(Politician)
With women having been at the forefront of the struggles the country faced, TK said it's only fitting that we celebrate their contribution. "They fought peacefully against apartheid and we treasure them."
Message to Women: Thank you for guiding us. Men, let us protect the women and children. Let us nurture them and stop the scourge of abuse and violence.
ISHMAEL MORABE
(Singer and songwriter)
For singer Ishmael, women have been a pillar of strength and the backbone of shaping the country. "In the fight against Apartheid, they played a significant role. Therefore, they are leaders and generals and deserve this day marked on the calendar. 'You strike a woman you strike a rock' - let us never forget the sacrifices the woman of Mzansi made so many years ago to enjoy the freedom we enjoy today. Let us honour our women by speaking out against gender-based violence. This should not only be today but every day."
Message to Women: Continue to be mothers, nurturers, caregivers, and leaders. Our society needs you.
