Women’s Day in Stellenbosch: Addressing the challenges faced by farm workers
Pastor Denise Atkins delivering a message of resilience and faith during Women's Day celebration at the De Waalshof farm. Other contributors included Pastor Margaret Brinkhuis, Pastor Elleanor Settie, Mrs Jean Nell, Sister Johanna Albertus, and Mrs Siena Smith - all of whom shared words of encouragement and empowerment.
Image: Supplied
A Women’s Day event held on a Stellenbosch farm aimed to shine a spotlight on the plight faced by women farm workers, said organisers.
The Tanelle Welff-Dixon Foundation and In Christ United Church hosted a celebration on Saturday, August 9, at DeWaalshof Farm, situated on the border of Stellenbosch, to bring their plight to the public.
“Farm women face unique challenges due to their isolation, including high levels of domestic violence, femicide, alcohol, and substance abuse.
“Alarmingly, the children of farm women remain at particular risk of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), a consequence historically linked to the now-illegal 'dop' system, which, despite being outlawed, is still reportedly practiced in parts of South Africa,” said Reverend Tanelle Welff-Dixon, the director of the foundation.
The event took place on the farm, drawing close to 100 women, including visitors from the Congo and Eastern Cape, who were in attendance.
The theme of the Women’s Day breakfast was “Rescue”, symbolising hope and restoration for women facing hardship.
Rev Welff-Dixon said, “We believe that all women deserve to be seen, heard, and valued. Today, we stand with the women in our farming communities - not only to celebrate their strength but to commit to rescuing them from cycles of abuse, neglect, and inequality.”