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In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus (MPWC), Ms Nkhensani Kate Bilankulu, commended women and girls around the world who lead the charge to adapt, mitigate and respond to climate change to build a more sustainable future for us all for generations to come.
 
“During this time,” Ms Bilankulu said, “we should assess the impact of climate change being most severe on women and children, and its impact on women working in natural resource sectors, like the agricultural sector. The lessons for South Africa learnt from global responses, the role that women leaders can play regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation, and lessons for a sustainable future should also be put under the spotlight.
 
“As mothers, women are, in most instances, the first teachers on all issues, including how to ensure a better and safer environment. Women take the initiative to ensure that our young girls and boys understand the importance of appreciating the natural resources they were granted.”
 
South Africa’s contribution to climate change should also be examined at this time. “We should not forget the role that women played in agreements related to the COP 26 Summit, as well as their contribution to the Climate Change Bill. As women, we are proud of every single contribution that paved the way for positive change,” Ms Bilankulu said.
 
Women and girls in Africa still face many challenges, including gender-based violence, child marriages and teenage pregnancies, Ms Bilankulu went on to say. “We need to understand those challenges to ensure a leadership role for women in our continent’s political economy, so that they are at the forefront of ensuring a better environment for all.”

Issued by The Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women's Caucus, Nkhensani Kate Bilankulu