Pretoria: Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has reaffirmed the government's commitment to advancing gender equality and honouring women's legacies at the inaugural Portraits of Power exhibition, which pays tribute to Charlotte Mannya Maxeke's enduring contribution to women's leadership and social justice.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister emphasized that South Africa remains committed to gender equality and women's empowerment, highlighting that this commitment is deeply embedded in the nation's Constitution and is evident through various policies and partnerships. She made these remarks during the launch of the exhibition, which celebrates the remarkable contributions of women to leadership and social progress.
The International Portraits of Power exhibition is spearheaded by the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute, in collaboration with The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa and various diplomatic missions. Ntshavheni remarked that the exhibition aims to recognize the global and timeless contributions of women in leadership, innovation, and community development, stressing the transformative impact women have worldwide.
The exhibition is part of a larger initiative to commemorate the 155th birthday anniversary of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke. Ntshavheni highlighted Maxeke's historic achievements, noting her status as the first Black woman to graduate with a university degree in Southern Africa, and her role in advocating for women's rights and representation in South Africa, particularly her involvement in the formation of the African National Congress in 1912.
Ntshavheni acknowledged the progress made in women's empowerment since South Africa's liberation but stressed the ongoing journey toward achieving full equality. She called for continuous effort to ensure women have equal access to opportunities and leadership platforms globally, emphasizing the necessity of inclusive leadership for sustainable development and social justice.
The Minister urged collaboration across governments, the private sector, civil society, and the international community to create environments where women can thrive, asserting that the exhibition should serve as a call to action to support and elevate women's voices and potential, while removing barriers to their progress.
In closing, Ntshavheni called for strengthening global partnerships to promote equality, dignity, and opportunity for all, ensuring that the legacy of pioneers like Maxeke inspires future generations of women leaders.