In South Africa, Women’s Month (August) is a time of commemoration, not celebration. It serves as a solemn reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by women in the fight against apartheid and gender-based violence. The month honors the 1956 Women’s March, during which thousands of women protested against the pass laws, and it recognizes the ongoing challenges that women continue to face.

Commemorating Women’s Month acknowledges the progress made towards gender equality, while also underscoring the work still required to address persistent issues such as:

1. Gender-based violence
2. Economic empowerment
3. Representation and participation
4. Healthcare and education

However, is there truly cause for celebration, or has Women’s Month become merely a public holiday? While it is essential to approach this month with reverence and responsibility, we must also recognize the ongoing issues of gender-based violence, gender inequality, and patriarchy.

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for men to sign an online pledge against gender-based violence (GBV) is a symbolic gesture, but it lacks the concrete action needed to address the root causes of GBV. How does an online pledge reach marginalized communities without internet access? This effort seems as limited in impact as a restraining order for a woman against her abusive partner.

Hosting Women’s Month events across the country does not change the material conditions of women on the ground. Instead of spending money on these events, funds could be better allocated towards skills development and the empowerment of women in various communities.

South Africa must address the systemic and structural issues within our communities that contribute to GBV. The government alone cannot solve this problem; civic movements, faith-based organizations, and NGOs should be funded and supported to address the challenges that communities face, as these groups are on the ground and understand the daily struggles plaguing their communities.

Collective responsibility for addressing GBV is essential. As we look toward Women’s Month in 2025, we should measure our progress by asking ourselves whether we have truly moved the needle on GBV. Instead of signing an online pledge next year, we should reflect on what we have done to empower and uplift women, and whether we have assisted in educating them about various government initiatives and funding opportunities. These steps are crucial for breaking the financial dependency that often forces women to remain in or return to abusive relationships.