Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has lauded the late broadcaster Thabiso Sikwane and Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni's roles as advocates for women empowerment.

The renowned media broadcaster, Thabiso Sikwane, and praise singer, musician and church Bishop, Jessica Mbangeni, both passed away on Saturday, adding to the list of personalities the country recently lost during Women's Month.

Paying tribute, Chikunga said Sikwane and Mbangeni were the epitome of hope to many women and girls in South Africa, particularly those in the creative and art sector.

"We drop our heads and spears to the ground at the two women who have contributed to the development and transformation of art by carrying the message of socio-economic empowerment of women and girls to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) to the world.

"They have served as role models, showing women and girls that they too can express themselves and make an impact by breaking barriers through achieving recognition for future generations and inspiring them to be at the forefront of social change," Chikunga said.

She noted that through mediums including radio music, literature, visual arts and performance, these women made a significant impact, by challenging norms, and inspiring action on social issues.

"We should continue to advocate and mainstream for socio-economic empowerment of women and girls through government programs such as the Young Creatives Programme that encourage women and youth to get involved in community activism to foster social cohesion, nation-building, and patriotism by investing in the creative economy to end poverty among women and girls," Chikunga said.

The Minister extended her sincere condolences to the Sikwane and Mbangeni families.