The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) has reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting women’s lives.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi, speaking at the Women’s Month Engagement Session on Sunday held at Houghton Hotel, emphasised that the provincial government is steadfast in ensuring the protection and support for women in society.
“We know you are going through difficulties economically, socially and otherwise. We are declaring that these difficulties won’t last long.
“We commit ourselves to creating opportunities for you, to protect you, to create an environment conducive for you to prosper economically and otherwise. It is a difficult society, but we are committing ourselves to improve it,” affirmed Premier Lesufi.
The session sought to address issues of Gender Based Violence (GBV), socio-economic challenges and other issues that women face.
Lesufi underscored government’s efforts to establish harmonious coexistence without fearing shadows.
He said the GPG has demonstrated this commitment by increasing its budget for combating crime from R800 million to R4.3 billion. This increased budget, he added, will revolutionise the fight against crime.
“Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is enemy number one in our province and can only be eradicated if our police stations take care of those they need to care for. We are committing ourselves to release all the necessary resources … the necessary pathological experiences and technocrat to assist us,” he said.
Embracing a broader vision, Lesufi called for repositioning the province as a new digital economy that will thrive on digital instruments, creativity, innovation and technology.
He commended women’s commitment to propelling the province’s economy towards prosperity.
“Those in business must find it easy in our province, that they do not have to go through many hurdles of favours and briberies but must go through these things using their skills and talent to succeed in our province.
“Things that are done by women are not only beautiful, but they are impactful; things that are done by women are only having an element of care but have an element of sustainability,” said the Premier.
Sharing her journey, Malaika Tsoeu, representing the Karabelo Foundation from Katlehong, highlighted the challenge of securing funds for her foundation, despite full compliance.
Malaika pleaded with government to give the art industry the same attention and support as bestowed upon sports.
“I do performing arts for children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. I struggle to get funding, but I comply.
“I have been running free theatre production at the Katlehong Art Centre since 2010. In February, sports coordinators were hired in schools but with arts; we are still waiting. Please create job opportunities for artists,” Malaika advocated.
From the South African Networking for Women in Transport (SANWIT), Fusi Florence Magasana emphasised women’s need to acquire skills in the transport sector.
“We also want to know how to panel beat cars. We need proper training on panel beating and being a mechanic.
“We need this so that we do not go and fight with men in the taxi industry. We need to be in the industry’s value chain,” said Magasana.
By Thembisa Shologu