22 August 2006

By Clifford Mogotsi

NO-NONSENSE upholders of the law though they may be, West Rand's police women took time out for a Women's Day celebration which recognised the special role they play in society, in addition to being mothers, sisters and wives.

Bejewelled with blue and brown outfits of the South African Police Services, Correctional Services and City's Public Safety, Mogale City's centenary hall took on a new dimension as the mothers of the law got into singing mode.

The celebration tied in with the commemoration of 9 August 1956, when thousands of women of all races marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, to demand an end to apartheid laws that violated their individual rights.

Adding a masculine aura to the celebration, Mogale City's executive mayor Koketso Calvin Seerane, saluted women in uniforms for being pioneers who are paving the way for others.

"I salute you for your continued love for this country. I salute you as pioneers that are paving the way for all other women, just like the gallant heroes of 1976".

"Ladies, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you for the service you render for the people of this city and this country. You will go down in history as people who made huge sacrifices and contributions to the building of South Africa, the land of winners. You will go down as heroes," said Seerane.

A more sombre tone was added by West Rand Area Commissioner Rex Machabi, who addressed the serious problem of women abuse, which continues despite government's efforts to employ more women in a bid for gender equality.

"Growing up in a rural village, my mother taught me to be a better man, and uneducated though she was, she had to face quite a number of challenges while also dealing with an abusive husband."

"It is important that in all government departments, women are afforded a chance to fulfill their dreams. Women should be found in all sections of the Police Service because they can carry the message far better than men," said Machabi.

Theories were put forth that a culture of violence born of years of political struggle against apartheid may explain the high levels of cruelty towards women, but women's groups also point a finger at patriarchal tradition.

Correctional Services head, social worker Mapula Rammutla, said women have a purpose in life and must shape up.

"We have unique characteristics that the world is looking for, courageous and strong and we need to be in tune with the environment," added Rammutla.

The celebration culminated with top performers being awarded certificates for their bravery in the office.