Honouring the women of uMhlathuze
The empowered woman is mighty beyond measure and beautiful beyond description was the shared sentiment at the uMhlathuze women's summit.
THE empowered woman is mighty beyond measure and beautiful beyond description.
This was the shared sentiment last week at the uMhlathuze Women’s Summit hosted at the Umfolozi Casino Resort to celebrate women of character, courage and commitment.
The event saw women from all walks of life gather in commemoration of the rights and freedom they fought for and to encourage them to continually be the ‘salt and light of the earth’ as expressed by SAPS Captain Michelle Michael.
In a presentation by University of Zululand Political Science Professor Chris Isike, statistics reveal that South Africa is ranked 2nd in Africa and 4th worldwide with the highest number of women in government.
‘South African women almost account for 50% of governmental leadership. I encourage our women to establish forums to address issues of concern,’
‘Women are generally more cooperative, less corrupt, more empathetic, peaceful and aware of community needs and thus bring a different angle to politics,’ he said.
‘The things that bind you together are more than those that set you apart. Step out, empower yourself and create change. African women are powerful by nature.
‘The strength of a woman has been evident since pre-colonialism. 40% of King Shaka’s army were women – a great warrior trusted them because he knew what they possess.’ said Isike.
Pan-African Women’s Organisation General Secretary, Member of Parliament and Keynote Speaker on the day, Fatima Nahara shared her experience as a politically active woman for almost 60 years.
Speakers included Richards Bay Minerals Communities and Corporate Relations General Manager Fundi Dlamini, uMhlathuze Deputy Mayor Councillor Vera Gumbi and Department of Correctional Services Official Claudine Pillay-Smith.
The women were treated to lunch and entertainment for the remainder of the day.
