Unlock this story — it’s free
Women leaders from across the Eastern Cape gathered at Riverside Lodge in Maletswai for the SALGA Women’s Commission Lekgotla, held on 12 November 2025. Themed “Breaking Barriers of Patriarchy and the Triple Oppression of Women as Gender, Class and Race – 30 Years After Beijing Platform for Change,” the event called for stronger accountability and solidarity in advancing women’s rights.
What Happened?
The Lekgotla opened with Commissioner Unathi Hlathuka, who anchored the session in scripture, urging women to uplift and support one another. She reminded participants that faith and unity remain key in dismantling barriers of patriarchy.
Walter Sisulu Local Municipality Mayor, Councilor Vania Davids, in her welcoming address, encouraged women to create safe spaces for open dialogue and empowerment. She cautioned against the “Pull-Her-Down” syndrome, emphasizing collaboration over competition among women in leadership.
Official Response
PEC Chairperson, Councilor Mesuli Ngondwana, unpacked the theme, focusing on accountability. He expressed the importance of holding municipalities, political parties, and institutions responsible for implementing the commitments made under the Beijing +30 framework.
Meanwhile, National Commissioner and Chairperson, Nomvuyo Mposelwa, closed the first session by underscoring that representation must go beyond numbers.
“Women must not only occupy leadership positions but also shape the policies that protect and promote women’s rights,” she said.
Community Impact
The Lekgotla inspired renewed commitment among local women leaders to strengthen gender equality programs and leadership mentorship within municipalities. Participants also discussed strategies to integrate gender-responsive policies in local governance.
Organizers said the gathering served as a platform for reflection and action, reinforcing the province’s role in driving women’s empowerment across social and political spaces.
