South Africa marks 70 years since women's march amid ongoing struggles

Seventy years after 20,000 women marched against apartheid pass laws, South Africa commemorates National Women's Day with a somber tone. While women now hold top political offices, many still face violence, poverty, and unemployment. President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged progress but noted women lack equal wealth and land. Police recorded 9,782 rapes in early 2026, and gender-based violence was declared a national disaster last year, yet rights groups say implementation lags.