The gesture formed part of the association’s activities, which also included donating sanitary towels to young women at local schools.

Muzi Sibeko, chairman of the drivers’ committee under the association, said the decision was aimed at showing appreciation while taking a stand against gender-based violence (GBV).

READ | Pienaar taxi operators wrap up Women’s Month in style

“We felt it was important to celebrate women in a unique way because we know that many women are facing gender-based violence. When women speak about being abused by men, we want them to know that we do not support such behaviour. We are saying, ‘Not in our name,” said Sibeko.

He said the association also sought to address the challenges faced by young women in the community who cannot afford sanitary products.

READ MORE | Female-only law enforcement roadblock in honour of women

“We also donated sanitary towels to young girls at local schools because we knew that some could not afford these essential products, which could make it difficult for them to attend school,” he said.

Another driver, Lucky Dlamini, called on men to protect women and children and take a stand against violence. “As we wrap up Women’s Month, we are calling on men to protect our women and children. We are saying no to gender-based violence,” he said.

The association hopes the initiative will have a lasting impact and encourage more men to protect and support women and children.

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The taxi operators, often criticised for violating women, sought to change this perception with their bold gesture, demonstrating appreciation for women and promoting a positive image.

As part of the initiative, they donated sanitary towels to those in need, further demonstrating their support for women. “Through this gender-switch initiative, we want to send a strong message that GBV will not be tolerated in our community, women deserve to live free from violence and fear,” they stated.

Top Star Taxi Association Chairman, John Mavundla, emphasised, “We should stand up against gender-based violence. We must take action and protect our women and children. Today, we want to remind women that they are powerful and deserve to be treated well.”

The drivers’ sentiments were echoed by Muzi Sibeko, who said, “We decided to honor women and celebrate them in style, but the real purpose is to raise awareness of GBV. With women and children facing abuse every day, we’re calling on men to take a stand and end the violence.”

Nkosinathi Khoza, another driver, added, “Wearing women’s clothes gave us a glimpse into their experiences, and it’s a wake-up call for us to be more empathetic and supportive. We want to show women that we love and appreciate them.”
The initiative has sparked conversations and raised awareness about GBV in the community, inspiring others to join the fight against this social scourge.

The post Pienaar taxi operators wrap up Women’s Month in style appeared first on MP Mirror Online.