The month of August is an opportunity to take the time and celebrate the important role that women of all races and religions have played and continue to play in the South African society, as well as women’s achievements. 

Unit Manager at the Orthopedic Ward at the Mediclinic Bloemfontein, Cathy Xuma, says women in the frontline industry have experienced and gained the knowledge of what it takes to be in the medical health industry.

“Our challenge is that the majority of doctors in our department is male. This requires us, as female nurses, to be more diplomatic and ensure the optimal nursing care of our patients. At the end of the day, to have a positive outcome, we as women are strong and this pandemic affected the whole nation. It’s universal so it’s important to balance your life,” Xuma says.

Nonki Nkgahle, a nurse at Mediclinic Bloemfontein, says this special month reminds us of how important, valuable and special women really are. “We are also reminded about how important they are and how women create a positive and safe environment for all around them. I would like all women to remember that you are special, chosen, and favoured,” Xuma says.

OFM News, along with the rest of South Africa, will celebrate Women’s Month in August - which is devoted to the strong, fearless, and independent woman in our country. Women’s Month is a tribute to the thousands of women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956, protesting against the extension of Pass Laws. This historic march was a turning point in the role of women during the struggle for freedom. 

Since that eventful day, women from all walks of life became equal partners in the struggle for a non-racial and non-sexist South Africa.

OFM News/Blaine Jones