The message is clear: when women are empowered, societies flourish. Across the country, women are proving that investing in their potential does more than uplift individuals, it strengthens families, transforms communities, and builds resilient nations.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” captures the very essence of women’s enduring contribution. Women give tirelessly: love, care, guidance, and mentorship often without expectation of reward. They nurture the next generation, inspire progress, and drive positive change in every sphere of life.
On this International Women’s Day, we honour the women who give selflessly and challenge institutions, communities, and individuals to recognise that empowering women is not charity—it is a strategic path to a stronger, more prosperous Eswatini.
SIBONGILE SUKATI
I am lucky enough to have been raised and surrounded by strong women all my life. From my maternal grandmother who took me everywhere as she spread the gospel—she was a staunch Jehova’s Witness—and no matter how many times we were kicked out of homes, she still returned. Then there’s my mother, the smartest woman I know, Professor Nonhlanhla Sukati, who also doubles as a farmer (I do not know where she gets the energy). My sister, who can read a French novel from Page 1 – 400.
To top that, they gave me the gift of sending me to St Michael’s Girls School where I met some of the strongest women I have ever met and made lifetime friends, who have turned into sisters. All my life I have been surrounded by women who give from the bottom of their hearts, and I can only hope I have been able to give back too.
Giving without expectation is the best feeling in the world, but ningabaphi bafana imali (unless they are your own). Happy International Women’s Day.
SITHEMBILE HLATSHWAYO
Today, as we commemorate International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Give to Gain,’ I reflect on the strength, resilience, and determination of women everywhere. For me, working in the fast-paced world of media while raising children has taught me the true meaning of perseverance and sacrifice. There are days filled with deadlines, interviews, and stories that must be told, and nights that stretch late as I balance the responsibilities of motherhood.
The theme resonates deeply with my journey. In the media industry, we give our time, energy, and commitment to telling stories that matter, giving a voice to communities, highlighting important issues, and helping shape conversations that can bring change. Happy International Women’s Day.
QONDILE SHONGWE
International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women for all that they are and all that they do in this world. For me, this day also carries deep memories. In one year, I lost someone I considered a mother, a woman whose life was tragically taken by her husband while other women were gathered at the Theatre Club commemorating this very day.
Because of that painful memory, my wish today is simple: that women come together, celebrate one another, and let go of the pull-each-other-down syndrome. Let us continue to crown each other and empower one another to become the best versions of ourselves.
As women, we face many challenges, but today reminds us of our strength and resilience. Let us rise above the negativity and stand strong in everything we do. Happy International Women’s Day, Timbokodvo.
NOKUNCEDA MAGAGULA
To me, International Women’s Day represents 24 hours of recognising and celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in every sphere of life. As a young woman, this day gives me an opportunity to pause and reflect on my achievements in a society that is still largely male-dominated.
It is a moment to appreciate my growth and think about how I can continue pushing boundaries, both in my personal life and in my career. It is also a time to learn from other women leaders, observe their journeys, and draw inspiration and lessons that will help me grow and improve myself.
NOMALUNGELO PHIRI
For me, entering my thirties, International Women’s Day has become a profound milestone for reflection and gratitude. It is a dedicated time to look back at my journey and realise how far I have come since I first stepped into the fast-paced world of media. My career has been a masterclass in human connection every day. I have had and continue to have the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life, each encounter adding a new layer to my understanding of the world.
NOKUPHILA HAJI
As we celebrate the achievements of incredible women today, I, as a young woman, want to acknowledge the amazing women in my life—my mother and grandmother. They have shown me what it means to be strong, resilient, and loving. I am so grateful for their influence in shaping my narrative of how I see the world as a young woman.
This year’s theme resonates with their efforts in my life: they have given to gain, which is why they deserve to be celebrated and appreciated today. I also want to celebrate all the women out there who are making a difference, especially those breaking barriers in male-dominated fields. I love how these women are able to stand up for themselves.
DUDU DUBE
For me, International Women’s Day is the one day when the world pauses to say, ‘Ladies, we see you.’ And honestly, it is about time because women have been doing the most since forever.
Women are CEOs, artists, mothers, leaders, and problem-solvers. We can run a meeting, run a household, and still somehow remember where everyone left their socks. I sometimes think women deserve a special award for surviving group chats, family expectations, and still managing to look unbothered. Working in entertainment has shown me just how powerful women can be.
BONGIWE DLAMINI
Today, as we commemorate International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Give to Gain,’ I am reminded of the incredible power that women hold to multiply whatever is placed in their hands.
For me, this theme speaks to the very essence of who we are as women. We are multipliers. Give us a seed and we grow life. Give us a house and we turn it into a home. Give us raw ingredients and we create hearty meals that nourish families and communities.
It is simply in our nature to take what we are given and transform it into something greater. Now, imagine what women can achieve when given not only seeds, but also the support, resources, and platforms to thrive. Imagine the change we can create not just within our homes, but within our communities, countries, and the world.
There was a time when a woman’s place was believed to be only in the kitchen and within the walls of her home. Yet today, women continue to prove their worth, resilience, and capability in every space they enter.
As a daughter, sister, mother, and woman who has carved her space in the fast-paced media industry, I carry with me the stories, struggles, and victories of many women who came before me and those who will come after. ‘Give to Gain’ reminds us that investing in women is never a loss. When you empower a woman, you empower families, strengthen communities, and build nations.
Today, we celebrate women. But most importantly, we recognise the limitless possibilities that unfold when women are given the opportunity to rise. HAPPY WOMEN’S DAY!!
