From gaining the right to vote to breaking down workplace barriers, women have made remarkable progress over the past century—raising their voices, embracing independence, and forging a future filled with strength, compassion, and wisdom.
South Africa’s National Women’s Day is a time to reflect on that journey and honour the women—past, present, and future—who have contributed to the ongoing pursuit of gender equality. It’s a celebration of resilience, unity, and the trailblazing spirit of women across the nation.
This National Women’s Day, Acorn Stairlifts proudly celebrates the women who continue to shape our world—not only through history-defining milestones but through the everyday ways they impact the lives of those around them.
Read on to learn about the history of National Women’s Day, discover meaningful ways to join the celebration, and reflect on powerful quotes from South Africa’s most inspiring women.
When is National Women’s Day in South Africa?
National Women’s Day in South Africa is celebrated annually on 9 August.
In 2024, the holiday falls on a Friday.
What is the History Behind South Africa’s National Women’s Day?
National Women's Day commemorates a pivotal moment in South African history—the 1956 march of approximately 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest the apartheid pass laws.
Organised by the Federation of South African Women and led by iconic figures like Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, the protest was a united stand against the oppressive laws that restricted the movement of black South Africans.
The women delivered petitions containing over 100,000 signatures to Prime Minister J.G. Strijdom, then stood in silence for 30 minutes before singing the powerful refrain: “Wathint' abafazi, wathint' imbokodo”—“You strike a woman, you strike a rock.”
This phrase became a lasting symbol of the strength and resilience of South African women.
Established in 1995, National Women’s Day honours that historic event and recognises the continued fight for equality. It’s both a tribute to the past and a call to action for a more just and inclusive future.
Ways to Celebrate Women on National Women’s Day
1. Support Women-Owned Businesses
Celebrate National Women’s Day by shopping at women-owned businesses. Whether it’s a boutique, restaurant, or online store, your support helps empower women entrepreneurs and promotes economic equality.
Share your experiences on social media to inspire others.
2. Attend or Organise a Community Event
Join in on marches, panel talks, or performances honouring women’s contributions in your community. If nothing is happening nearby, consider starting something simple—a book club on women authors or a film night featuring women directors.
3. Volunteer for Women’s Organisations
Lend your time and talents to organisations that support women’s health, education, and economic empowerment. You could:
Mentor young girls
Volunteer at a women’s shelter
Offer career or skills training
Your contribution can make a real impact.
4. Educate Yourself and Others
Use this day to learn more about women’s rights history and current issues facing women. Read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts focused on gender equality.
Then, share what you’ve learned with others—spark conversations that matter.
5. Celebrate the Women in Your Life
National Women’s Day is the perfect time to appreciate the amazing women around you. Write a note, give a gift, or spend time together. Let them know how much they’re valued.
Even the smallest gesture can mean the world.
Get Inspired—Words of Wisdom from Women
If we’ve learned anything throughout history, it’s this: When a woman speaks, the world should listen.
Get inspired by the words of powerful women who have redefined what it means to be strong.
National Women’s Day Quotes
"As an African woman, I've learnt the importance of self-definition and living purposefully. It's vital that every girl determines, as early as possible, who she is and what her contribution to humanity will be."
– Thuli Madonsela
“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”
– G.D. Anderson
“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”
– Margaret Thatcher
"I know for sure that African women are endlessly resilient. After what we have overcome in the past, nothing can stop us creating the future we and our country deserve. Just watch us."
– Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe
“The women of today are the thoughts of their mothers and grandmothers, embodied and made alive. They are active, capable, determined and bound to win.”
– Matilda Joslyn Gage
“Regardless of how many years we have spent in this life, we must get up and shout.”
– Fatima Meer
“A strong woman understands that the gifts such as logic, decisiveness, and strength are just as feminine as intuition and emotional connection. She values and uses all of her gifts.”
– Nancy Rathburn
"Therefore, my challenge to each of you... is that you ask yourself what you can do to make a difference. And then take that action, no matter how large or how small."
– Graca Machel
“Women are the people who are going to relieve us from all this oppression and depression.”
– Albertina Sisulu
“To those who oppose us, we say, ‘Strike the woman, and you strike the rock’.”
– Winnie Madikizela-Mandela
“We should be teaching young girls to take up space. Nothing is as important as taking up space in society and cementing yourself.”
– Zozibini Tunzi
“I say, It’s the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.”
– Maya Angelou
Read Maya Angelou’s full poem “Phenomenal Woman” here.
Learn More
Explore these resources to learn more about the history of women’s rights in South Africa, their contributions, and the inspiring individuals who’ve led the way:
Happy National Women’s Day!
Let’s continue to uplift, celebrate, and support the women who move our world forward.
