Launch of the Global Women Peace Network South Africa (GWPNSA)

By: Flory Yadao Ledwaba

On August 10, 2024, the Women’s Federation for World Peace South Africa (WFWPSA) officially launched the Global Women Peace Network South Africa (GWPNSA) through a hybrid event that combined both virtual and in-person participation. Themed "Women Empowerment: A Catalyst for Sustainable Peace," the event had 20 online participants, while others gathered at the June 16 Memorial Acre in Central Western Jabavu, Soweto. The event was funded by the Women’s Federation for World Peace International. The launch aimed to unite women and NGOs to collaborate on peace - building from the grassroots level. Its key objectives were: 

1. Presenting the Global Women Peace Ambassador’s Award to women leaders committed to fostering peaceful communities.

 2. Promoting healing and reconciliation for women affected by racial discrimination during Apartheid through the symbolic Bridge of Peace Ceremony.

 3. Supporting WFWPSA membership growth and sustainability. 

4. Honoring the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March against Apartheid, a momentous event commemorated annually by South Africans from all walks of life.

 The event was moderated by Ms. Jina Kuse and Ms. Hayong Wonderlik from the WFWPSA Young Professionals. The program began with an opening prayer led by Mrs. Safi Mbengeni, which set a solemn and positive atmosphere for the  event. Local Councilor Lineo Tsotetsi then delivered the welcoming remarks, emphasizing the importance of the launch in light of South Africa’s legacy of women's activism. This was followed by opening remarks from Mrs. Gwen Tshimbana-Mtiti, President of WFWPSA, the organization's dedication to peace-building and the empowerment of women. 

Dr. Sallyann Goodall Franklin from WFWP UK delivered the founder’s address; the speech by WFWPI co-founder Dr. Hak Jan Han Moon’s, titled "Women as a Turning Point for Peace," outlining the global mission of the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) and emphasizing the crucial role that GWPNSA would play in achieving that vision. It served as a reminder of the continued endevor of WFWP for peace and equality, highlighting the pivotal role of women’s leadership in these efforts. Quoting from the memoir of  Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon; “Mother of Peace”; she shared the phrase, "I am here to give my wedding ring to everyone," symbolizing the selfless nature of women. The event featured a series of insightful speeches from distinguished speakers: 

• Mrs. Dorothy Motubatse Hounkpatin from the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) South Africa, who spoke about the intersection of peace and development and the crucial role that women plays in the society.
• Ms. Esther Padi, who shared her personal experiences on grassroots innovation and its impact on communities. Esther is a dynamic young activist with a background in civil society leadership. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Innovating Kasi Organisation. Over the years, the organisation has expanded to include two initiatives under its umbrella: Generation Am Woke and the Mother and Daughter Movement.
• HRH Princess Khushe Mtirara from the Royal Kingdom of Abathembu, representing the African Royalties Network, who discussed the role of traditional leadership in fostering peace.
• HRH Princess Tshepi Motloung, Founder of the FutureLift Foundation, who emphasized the importance of sustainable development and the empowerment of young women. She spoke about the role of women in community development through programs that enhances skills and mastering new knowledge that will enable the individuals to make a sustainable difference and realizing their full potential for the ultimate improvement of their lives.

Following the speeches, Mrs. Gwen Tshimbana-Mtiti and Mrs. Vilma Kuse led in honoring ten community women leaders with the Global Women Peace Ambassador’s Award for their contributions to community-building and their advocacy in the fields of women empowerment, education, politics, and health. 

There were also Cultural performances throughout the program, including a soulful musical rendition by Ms. Kgosigadi and her mom and a traditional dance by the Mmangwana Youth group. The Bridge of Peace Ceremony, led by Flory Ledwaba and Mrs. Nosipho Mositoane, was a symbolic act of unity and reconciliation, reinforcing the event’s overarching theme. 

Ms. Salome Lebepe from WFWP Limpopo issued a compelling call to action, urging all participants to continue their efforts in promoting peace and empowerment in their communities. The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Debbie Raphuti from World Women Leading Change Africa, (WWLC) who reiterated the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable peace. Lastly, A commemorative tree planting ceremony followed, symbolizing growth, unity, and a commitment to nurturing peace for future generations. The event closed with refreshments, allowing attendees to network and reflect on the day's  proceedings.