Being a Woman in South Africa: Strength, Struggle, and Survival

National Women's Month in South Africa is more than just a celebration, it's a time to acknowledge the reality of what it means to be a woman in this country. From the historic march of 1956 to today's challenges, South African women continue to face significant obstacles whilst finding ways to rise above them.

The reality of being a woman in South Africa

Being a woman in South Africa means navigating a complex landscape of opportunity and danger. Women make up just over half of the population, yet they often face discrimination in the workplace, unequal pay, and limited access to leadership positions. Many women juggle multiple responsibilities; working, caring for families, and contributing to their communities, often with little recognition or support.

The reality is that women in South Africa live with constant awareness of their safety. From walking alone at night to using public transport, everyday activities require careful planning and consideration. This reality shapes how women move through the world and limits their freedom in ways that men rarely experience.

The shadow of gender-based violence

South Africa faces one of the world's highest rates of gender-based violence (GBV). More than 1 in 3 women, 36 percent, said they experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, while 24 percent reported experiencing violence by an intimate partner.

The female homicide rate in South Africa is roughly 24.6 per 100,000 population, nearly six times the global average. These statistics represent real women ( mothers, daughters, sisters, friends) whose lives were cut short by violence.

GBV affects women from all backgrounds, but it hits hardest in communities where poverty, unemployment, and social problems are most severe. According to official statistics, one in five women in relationships have experienced physical violence by a partner. Many more have suffered other forms of violence by men they know and strangers.

This violence doesn't just affect individual women, it impacts entire families and communities. Children who witness violence at home are more likely to experience problems in school and relationships. The fear of violence limits women's ability to work, study, and participate fully in society.

Government response and support

The government has recognised the severity of the problem. The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill was signed into law on 24 May 2024. This legislation creates a council to provide strategic leadership in fighting GBV and femicide.

However, laws alone cannot solve the problem. Changing attitudes and behaviour requires community involvement, education, and long-term commitment. Close to eight in 10 South Africans (78%) say it is "never" justified for a man to use physical force to discipline his wife, showing that most people understand that violence is wrong, yet it continues to happen.

 

Paths to empowerment

Despite these challenges, women across South Africa are finding ways to empower themselves and build better lives. Education remains one of the most powerful tools for empowerment. When women have access to quality education, they can access better jobs, make informed decisions about their lives, and teach their children the value of learning.

Entrepreneurship offers another path to empowerment. Entrepreneurship is an avenue by which women can become economically active and overcome a range of barriers that compromise their development and empowerment. Starting a business allows women to create their own opportunities and build wealth for their families.

Several programmes support women entrepreneurs. The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is a programme designed to empower women entrepreneurs in Southern Africa, including Lesotho, Eswatini, and South Africa. The NEF Women Empowerment Fund is aimed at accelerating the provision of funding to businesses owned by black women. The funding starts from R250 000 to R75 million across a range of sectors.

 

Women are also empowering themselves by building strong support networks. Women's groups, community organisations, and professional associations provide spaces where women can share experiences, learn from each other, and work together to solve problems.

Technology is opening new opportunities for women to connect and learn. Online platforms allow women to access training, find mentors, and market their businesses. Social media gives women a voice and platform to raise awareness about issues affecting them.

 

The role of men and communities

Women's empowerment cannot happen in isolation. Men must be part of the solution by challenging harmful attitudes, supporting women's goals, and taking responsibility for ending violence. Communities must create safe spaces for women and girls, support survivors of violence, and hold perpetrators accountable.

The women who marched in 1956 fought for freedom and equality. Today's women continue that fight in different ways; through education, entrepreneurship, activism, and daily acts of courage. Each woman who starts a business, finishes her education, or stands up against violence is part of a larger movement for change.

Being a woman in South Africa means facing real challenges, but it also means being part of a long tradition of strength and resilience. National Women's Month reminds us that despite the obstacles, women continue to find ways to survive, thrive, and build better futures for themselves and their families.

If you or someone you know is experiencing GBV, help is available. Contact the GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428 or 1207867# for free, confidential support.