Power and Promises: Will the Election Change the Fortunes of Women in SA?

On 20 May, Hlanganisa Community Fund and Women Inspired Solutions for Empowerment (WISE)a political debate? titled "Power & Promises: Will the Election Change the Fortunes of Women in SA?" This platform was designed to critically examine and discuss the gender policies and commitments of various political parties ahead of the 2024 elections. The event aimed to bridge the gap between political promises and the lived realities of women in South Africa, fostering accountability and encouraging informed voting.

The dialogue was moderated by Cathy Mohlahlana and it featured representatives from major political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Freedom Front Plus (FF+) Rise Mzansi and Action SA. Each representative presented their party's manifesto, highlighting their plans and policies to address gender disparities and promote the empowerment of women.

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Bongiwe Ndondo, CEO of Hlanganisa Community Fund, opened the event with an empowering keynote address, emphasizing the necessity of integrating a gender lens into all political and socio-economic discussions. She stressed that issues affecting women should not be seen as women's issues alone but as critical societal challenges that require collective action.

Throughout the event, there were engaging discussions on various topics, including gender-based violence, economic empowerment, political participation, and access to education and healthcare. Ndondo highlighted the findings of a gender analysis conducted by Hlanganisa on the election manifestos. This analysis revealed that, despite South Africa’s progressive constitution, many political manifestos still exhibit significant gender blindness, failing to adequately address the unique challenges faced by women.

Here are key quotes from the party representatives during the "Power & Promises: Will the Election Change the Fortunes of Women in SA?" event:

Tshegofatso Mashabela, EFF Tshwane Secretary | Councillor:

"The EFF prioritizes the eradication of gender-based violence and economic empowerment for women. We believe in a radical approach to dismantle the systemic barriers that oppress women in our society."

Tumi Ramakoaba, Publicity Secretary of the IFP Women's Brigade in Gauteng:

"The IFP is dedicated to creating safe and empowering environments for women. Our focus is on practical support and policies that address the unique challenges women face, especially in rural areas."

Tammy Breedt from the FF+ Youth and Women:

"The FF+ aims to enhance security and legal protections for women, and we are pushing for policies that promote gender equality in all sectors. Women’s rights and safety are non-negotiable."

Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, Rize Mzansi, Candidate for Gauteng Premier:

"Rize Mzansi is committed to building a new social contract where women's rights are central. We need to ensure our policies are inclusive and address the root causes of gender inequality."

Lerato Ngobeni, ActionSA's National Spokesperson and a Councillor in the City of Johannesburg:

"ActionSA’s policies are centered on practical solutions for women's empowerment. We advocate for better education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women."

Cat Moji, ATM NEC Member:

"The ATM believes in holistic approaches to gender equality. We are focused on community-based solutions and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in all spheres of decision-making."

Mapaseka Steve Letsike, ANC NEC member and LGBTIQ+ human rights activist:

"As the ANC, we recognize that gender equality must go beyond mere representation. We are committed to creating policies that ensure substantive equality and address the intersectional challenges faced by women and the LGBTIQ+ community. It is imperative that our approach is inclusive, leaving no one behind in our pursuit of justice and equity."

At the conclusion of the "Power & Promises: Will the Election Change the Fortunes of Women in SA?" event, Advocate Brenda Madumise offered powerful closing remarks. She emphasized the critical need for political accountability and the importance of ensuring that gender equality remains a priority in all political agendas. Madumise called for continuous engagement with political manifestos and urged women to hold political parties accountable for their promises. She stressed the importance of informed voting to ensure that elected leaders are committed to creating substantive and lasting change for women across South Africa.

Madumise's closing message underscored the necessity of collective action and solidarity in the ongoing fight for gender justice, reminding attendees that the pursuit of equality is not just a women's issue but a societal imperative that demands everyone's involvement.

while much progress has been made, significant work remains. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the political representatives, speakers, participants, and media partners and event sponsor First for Women who contributed to making this event a success. For further details on the event and to watch the full discussion, you can view the recording on our YouTube channel.