​On Friday, 08 August 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s female officials, in partnership with funded NPOs, hosted a Women’s Day commemoration under the theme “Building Resilient Economies for All.”
The event included a candlelight ceremony and a moment of silence to remember and honor women who lost their lives during 2024/25.

Dressed in elegant black and orange, guests gathered at Chief Mogale Hall in Kagiso, Western Corridor, to pay tribute and to reflect on women’s contributions and challenges.

Event coordinator and Social Worker, Mpolokeng Kambule from the Krugersdorp office, said the aim was to educate employees who work directly with women on the importance of financial resilience.

“This celebration is also a clarion call to accelerate the role of women in the economy and empower them, while tackling barriers such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment,” said Kambule. “As a Department, we want to break the stereotype of financial dependence on men. We are impressed with the outcomes of this event and encourage continued awareness on gender-based violence (GBV) in workplaces and communities.”

Entrepreneur Mookho Maruping urged women to start their own businesses, not only for personal gain but also to create jobs for unemployed women. “When women succeed, they uplift their communities,” she said.

Various stakeholders also participated, including E-Gov, which introduced a panic button for women’s safety, and the department’s Sustainable Livelihood unit, which encouraged the formation of women’s groups and cooperatives.

For EPWP volunteer Malebu Moloi, it was her first time attending such an event. “I have learned so much. My friends and I, who have skills in baking, fashion design, and agriculture, plan to start a cooperative. We will be visiting the local office for more information and assistance,” she said with optimism.