equality

Besides the late Nelson Mandela, many other South Africans have stood up for human rights. Among their names, we can count people like Desmond Tutu and Miriam Makeba. They have all devoted their time and talents to improving the lives of all people.

Too often, the stories of Africa are shrouded in pain and suffering. Sibahle, which means "we are beautiful", is trying to change that by tackling negative stereotypes and creating a different picture.

Discussions at the African Economic Conference this week focused on developments regarding poverty and inequality on the continent. Income distribution was a key topic. Hundreds of experts talked about how new policies and leadership could change the way of life in Africa.

Female taxi drivers could soon be plying the streets of Cairo, carting their female passengers from point A to point B. Pink Taxi Egypt, a new initiative, wants to make female passengers feel safer while using cabs in the city, but it has already faced criticism.

SA ranks high for its legal framework regarding women's and gender rights, but Pontsho Manzi says that South Africans need to play their part in making true gender equality a reality by teaching children that men and women are equal.

Changes to the law have not made as much impact in bringing about gender equality as had been expected. The time has come, says the International Women's Forum South Africa, for enforcement. Its Women's Empowerment Index will analyse progress until 2020.

Forty-seven men and women have received South Africa's highest civilian honours for exceptional service to the people of the country and for the roles they played in SA's fight for freedom.