SA women are the backbone of the nation: Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described South African women as the backbone of the nation. He was delivering the keynote address at the National Women’s Day celebrations at the Nkowankowa stadium outside Tzaneen in Limpopo.

The day marks the 69th anniversary of the historic women’s march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Ramaphosa has emphasised women’s contribution to various aspects, including family and community. He has also paid tribute to women for their pivotal role in national development.

[WATCH] President Cyril Ramaphosa says when a woman is empowered, everyone is empowered; when a woman prospers, everyone prospers; and when a woman rises, we all rise. pic.twitter.com/CykukiFIfp

— SABC News (@SABCNews) August 9, 2025

“We have to honour you as the women of our country. You are the fabric of our nation. You are the glue that keeps our nation together. You give birth to us. You care for us. And so today we honour you. On this day, we malibongwe igama lama nkosikazi … malibongwe,”

President Ramaphosa says.

The President also says the country’s laws and policies must be biased towards improving the lives of women.

He pledged 40% of public procurement for women-owned businesses, training for women entrepreneurs, and greater market access through the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Ramaphosa has urged South Africans to build “resilient economies for all” and ensure no woman is left behind, especially those in rural areas, those living with disabilities, or those in the LGBTQI+ community.

VIDEO | National Women’s Day Commemoration 2025