National Women’s Day in South Africa
National Women’s Day is observed in South Africa on 9 August. It recalls the 1956 march to Pretoria’s Union Buildings, where women protested apartheid pass laws, and connects that history with the country’s continuing focus on women’s rights and equality.[1][2]
A public holiday on 9 August
South Africa’s Public Holidays Act establishes the country’s public holidays and provides for them to be paid holidays. Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, an employer may require work on a public holiday only by agreement. If an employee would ordinarily work that day, the Act sets minimum pay rules for both employees who do not work and those who do.[1][3]
The day is fixed on 9 August. South Africa’s public-holiday rule also says that when a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the Monday following it is a public holiday. That rule applies to National Women’s Day as well.[1]
The march behind the date
On 9 August 1956, about 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. They opposed pass laws and related legislation that extended apartheid government control over Black women’s movement in urban areas. The march is commemorated as a national protest against racial oppression and restrictions on women.[2]
Women’s Month is observed in August, and the national commemoration honours the marchers alongside earlier pioneers of South Africa’s women’s movement. South African government material describes the day as part of a broader reflection on women’s achievements and their continuing role in society.[2][4]
Commemorations and practical planning
Official commemorations have included public events, and government material describes celebrations taking place around the country during August. Events and locations can vary; there is no single set of ceremonies, foods or customs followed by everyone. The day’s public meaning is rooted in South African history rather than in a single household tradition.[2][4]
National Women’s Day is a public holiday, so employees’ rights are governed by public-holiday employment rules. Check opening times with the government office, bank or shop, and check transport schedules with the operator. Check directly before travelling to a commemoration.[1][3]
Frequently asked questions
When is National Women’s Day in South Africa?
It is observed every year on 9 August. If the date falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a public holiday under South Africa’s public-holiday rule.[1]
Is National Women’s Day a public holiday?
Do employees have to work on the holiday?
An employer may require an employee to work on a public holiday only in accordance with an agreement. The Basic Conditions of Employment Act sets minimum pay rules for employees who work and for those who do not, when the day is one they would ordinarily work.[3]
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Banks, shops and transport operators set their own hours, so check with them before travelling.
Sources and references
Sources used for National Women's Day in South Africa:
- Public holidays in South Africa- South African Government
- Women's Day- South African Government
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act- Department of Employment and Labour
- Woman's Month- Vuk’uzenzele, Government of South Africa