Ilitha Labantu, a pioneering organization in the fight for women’s rights and gender equality, recently marked its 35th anniversary with an impactful international conference that honored the late Mam Mandisa Monakali. The event, held from 26 to 28 February 2025 at The Rockefeller Hotel in Cape Town, paid tribute to Monakali’s legacy and highlighted critical justice issues affecting women and children worldwide.
Originally scheduled for late 2024, the conference was postponed following Monakali’s passing after a courageous battle with cancer. Yet, her unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and child protection loomed large throughout the event. Monakali’s vision, which led to the founding of Ilitha Labantu in 1989, continues to inspire the organization’s mission for a society free from violence and discrimination.
Honoring Mam Mandisa Monakali’s Legacy
Monakali, a survivor of domestic violence, recognized the need for a robust support system for women facing similar struggles. During apartheid, she established Ilitha Labantu in Gugulethu to provide crucial services to women and children in Black townships. What started as a small grassroots initiative grew into a national and global force for gender equality, pushing for systemic change to protect and empower women.
Her dedication not only impacted South Africa but extended to influencing national policies, regional human rights frameworks, and engaging with international bodies to advocate for gender-based violence as a human rights issue.
A Global Dialogue for Women’s Empowerment
The 35th-anniversary conference brought together leaders, policymakers, activists, and civil society members from around the world to reflect on progress, confront ongoing challenges, and explore actionable solutions for the empowerment of women and girls. Esteemed speakers included Sallah-Njie, Vice Chairperson of the African Commission for Human and Peoples’ Rights; Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike from the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; and Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the South African Parliament.
Key Global Voices Join the Conversation
Senior representatives from UN Women, UNICEF, UNODC, and leading feminist organizations joined the dialogue, offering valuable perspectives and engaging in critical discussions about the future of women’s rights. The conference, held under the theme “Women’s Rights at the Crossroads: Rethinking Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Girls in Advancing Sustainable Development”, tackled a wide range of urgent topics that impact women and girls globally.
The event also delved into the dangers of democratic backsliding on women’s rights, emphasizing the challenges within feminist politics, and reaffirmed the critical importance of sustaining progress towards gender equality in a rapidly changing global landscape.
A Commitment to Advancing Women’s Rights
As Ilitha Labantu commemorated its 35th anniversary, the organization reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the rights and dignity of women and children. This significant milestone serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots movements and the enduring impact of those who, like Mam Mandisa Monakali, dedicated their lives to the pursuit of justice and equality. The conference not only celebrated achievements but also catalyzed ongoing conversations about ensuring a brighter future for women and girls around the world.
