The Emakhosikati Asebukhosini (Women from Traditional Councils) representing 11 of the 17 traditional councils of Gert Sibande Local House of Traditional Leaders, experienced an answered prayer when they received over 100 boxes each with 10 packs of sanitary towels from Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) on 4 June.
The women from traditional councils had submitted a request for assistance to GSDM to help keep young girls in the rural areas of the district in school by providing sanitary towels.
Ms Inkosikati Busisiwe Hlatshwako of Emfumbeni Traditional Council, appreciated the swift response from GSDM led by Executive Mayor, Mr Muzi Chirwa, indicating that the working relationship between the District Municipality and the traditional leadership in Gert Sibande is indeed improving the lives of the people.
She also appreciated Member of Mayoral Committee for Finance Councillor, Ms Snana Dhlamini, and Member of Mayoral Committee for Special projects, Councillor Busisiwe Sikhonde, for their efforts in ensuring that their request was implemented.
This is a continued commitment by government in ensuring that every girl child stays in school.
The sanitary programme was first launched in Gert Sibande District by the Ministry of Women in the Presidency on 28 February in Mkhondo under the theme, ‘Restoring the dignity of young women’, during which an announcement was made that government would begin to provide free sanitary towels to young girl pupils in schools.
This programme is close to the heart of Executive Mayor Chirwa who is advocating against inequalities in the society.