Flowers of the nation
2010-12-09
I WAS one of the men who was fortunate to attend the conference for mothers and girls themed ‘Growing and Preserving the Flowers of the Nation’ held recently in Mbekweni. It was organised by a non-profit organiser, Qolothani Makhosikazi (work hard women) Social and Cultural Services, founded by Dr Cynthia Zulu-Kabanyane in conjunction with Cence. Its timing was relevant since it took place within the 16 Days of Activism against the abuse of women and children. The presence of the Dr Simphiwe Mngadi, Chief Director of the Department for Women, Youth, Children and People with Disabilities, added value to this conference. Dr Mngadi elaborated on the services of the Department towards changing the lives of its target groups. Women walked away understanding the importance of empowering women through education, financial freedom and living a healthy lifestyle. Every speaker emphasised that this can only be achieved when mothers begin to have crucial and open conversations with their daughters. Last, but not least was the testimony from girls who are HIV positive, been raped and abused by boyfriends. This left very few conference attendants dry-eyed - even some of the men present shed a few tears. I hope this can become an annual event to save our girls and young women from the social ills that are eroding their essence as Flowers of the Nation. An impressed father
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