Ilitha Labantu, a trailblazer in the fight for women's rights and gender equality, recently celebrated its 35th anniversary with an impactful international conference that both honoured the late Mam Mandisa Monakali and addressed critical justice issues affecting women and children worldwide.
The event, initially scheduled for late 2024, was postponed following the passing of Mam Mandisa Monakali after a battle with cancer.
The conference, held from 26 to 28 February 2025 at The Rockefeller Hotel in Cape Town, became a poignant tribute to Monakali’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and protecting children.
Her vision, which led to the founding of Ilitha Labantu in 1989, continues to inspire and guide the organisation as it works towards a society free from violence and discrimination.
Monakali’s legacy as a leader and a change-maker lives on.
A survivor of domestic violence herself, Monakali recognised the urgent need for a support system for women facing similar hardships.
Amid the apartheid era, she established Ilitha Labantu in Gugulethu, providing crucial services to women and children in Black townships. Her vision went beyond support; she aimed for systemic change to safeguard and empower women.
What started as a grassroots initiative soon blossomed into a national, continental, and global force for gender equality.
Over the years, Ilitha Labantu has influenced national policies, contributed to regional human rights frameworks, and engaged with international bodies to push for the recognition of gender-based violence as a human rights issue.
The conference brought together leaders, policymakers, activists, and civil society members from across the globe to reflect on the strides made, confront ongoing challenges, and explore actionable solutions for the empowerment of women and girls.
Among the esteemed speakers were Sallah-Njie, Vice Chairperson of the African Commission for Human and Peoples’ Rights; Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; and Thoko Didiza, Speaker of Parliament of South Africa.
Senior representatives from UN Women, UNICEF, UNODC, and leading feminist organisations also participated, offering valuable perspectives and driving critical discussions on the future of women’s rights.
Held under the theme "Women’s Rights at the Crossroads: Rethinking Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Girls in Advancing Sustainable Development", the conference covered a wide range of urgent topics.
In addition, the conference examined the dangers of democratic backsliding on women’s rights, exploring the challenges within feminist politics.
As Ilitha Labantu marked its 35th anniversary, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of women and children.
Weekend Argus