Activists call for preservation of women’s livelihoods in SA

The Progressive Women’s Movement of South Africa (PWMSA) has called on government, industry, labour, and civil society to stop the erosion of women’s livelihoods.

PWMSA marked International Women’s Day on Sunday by raising concern about the high rate of retrenchments that affect women who work in heavy industries.

The movement said retrenchments are deepening inequality and increasing the risks of gender-based violence (GBV).

According to PWMSA CEO Ms Lulama Nare, skilled women artisans are a national asset.

"Losing them to retrenchments is a blow to families, communities, and the economy. PWMSA calls for urgent partnership, resources, and programmes that protect livelihoods and create pathways to sustainable work for women."