​Last Saturday, the 13th August 2022, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) kick started its Women’s Month Program by honouring struggle stalwart, Frances Baard, at Mabopane Sports Complex.
Baard was one of the women who led the 1956 historical Women’s March to Union Buildings in Pretoria to demand the scrapping of pass laws.

Speaking at the event, the Gauteng Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko said, “for the past two years we could not hold these events due to Covid-19 regulations. This year, we felt that we should honour Frances Baard for her courage, iconic spirit, and selfless contribution in society”.

Mazibuko reflected on the impact of the harsh conditions women had to leave under during apartheid. She said, “As women we did not have rights, and everything had to be done through a man and this is how terrible was the apartheid government”.

Adding that in honour of Baard and other women who participated in the 1956 historic march, they will walk in commemoration of the 66th anniversary of the Women’s March and deliver a petition to the Gauteng Premier, David Makhura, in remembrance of the historic event at the Union Buildings.
This year, the women’s celebrations are held under the theme; “Women’s Socio-Economic Rights and Empowerment: Building Back Better for Women’s Improved Resilience”

During this Women’s Month, the Gauteng Provincial Government and partners will embark on a series of engagements with women on all societal challenges affecting them as well as programs aimed at empowering women in the province.