Forum plans to celebrate women street vendors in Butha-Bothe

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – An international women’s day celebration by Matlakeng Women Empowerment Forum was yesterday postponed at the eleventh hour. The celebration which was set for today will now be celebrated on March 20. Founder of Matlakeng Women Empowerment Forum, Ngoajane Monyako, said they have decided to celebrate the day by giving back to women as a gesture to support them, particularly street vendors.

Monyako told Public Eye in a brief interview that they will focus on Butha-Bothe street vendors, especially women working under umbrellas to appreciate their work and contribution while also making them feel valued for the difference they make in society. “The generous gesture underscores the organisation’s commitment which is to uplift and empower women and youth,”

She said, they want to motivate women street vendors and make them realise how important they are, not only to their families but to the nation at large.

“Women are the backbone of families and communities; they often take on leadership roles in communities,” she added. Monyako further explained that, apart from the gifts that will be shared with street vendors, they will also be issuing appreciation certificates adding that they carried out an assessment of the most deserving. “We did an assessment before since we could not afford to buy all of them gifts,” she said.

During the celebration, Monyako said speakers will include some of the most successful street vendors such as one Mampaka Maraka, a Pastor from Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL) and Lipelaneng Nutrition Group and President of Matlakeng Women Empowerment Forum.

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, a global occasion to honour the achievements of women and recognize their contributions to society. Matlakeng Women Empowerment Forum was formed in August 2022 with a vision to uplift and empower women and youth within the community. The organization says its mandate to embarke on a noble mission to provide livelihood skills and opportunities for growth.