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 He said women should find out if gender balance has improved or not. “We should seek to know why we celebrate this day in Francsistown. In the past, people believed that the woman’s place is the kitchen and many still have that perception. But today’s women have contradicted the perception.” He asserted that women are the pillars of society and should be respected. Nganunu said that the Constitution treats every Motswana as equal despite their colour, race or culture. He said the government has removed marital power to free women from men’s control. “The sole purpose of attending this meeting is to show support for women.” He said women should not be afraid but should be free to engage in political or business responsibilities.
When presenting an overview of gender issues, Francistown District commissioner, Sylvia Muzila said that many do not yet understand issues of gender equality. She pointed out that women often earn lower salaries than their male counterparts even when undertaking the same responsibilities. “Despite the removal of marital power, women are still denied access to other services as single individuals. There is still a problem of poverty alleviation among women in Francistown.”
She said that it is interesting that women are now included in hard labour activities like brick-moulding, welding, metal works and radio repairs. “This used to be the responsibilities of men.” She presented statistics of gender abuse of in Francistown. Muzila said presenting such figures in the presence of the Chief Justice brought hope, as he is likely to take the matter to higher authorities.
In an interview with Mmegi, one of the attendants at the ceremony, Boitumelo Hahn expressed happiness over empowerment and equality emphasised by the government. “This day is good because it motivates and sensitises the nation.” Hahn called on other women to attend such meetings, as they are informative.
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