"[We] support the implementation of the youth wage subsidy, and any other intervention that might help our women become productive and paid," he said.

He said the struggle of 2012 was different to that of 1956 for women of today.

"We recognise that the struggle of 1956 is not the struggle of 2012. But overcoming the struggle of the present will require the same fortitude, courage and moral integrity that were brought to bear in 1956."

Women's Day is commemorated annually on August 9 in memory of the march held by women in 1956 to protest against apartheid pass laws.

In terms of this law, a pass restricted where black people were allowed to be, or travel to, in the country. Not carrying the pass, or not having it up to date, meant a fine or jail.

Buthelezi said today's struggle was not for the political liberation. But it was for active participation to fight poverty, crime, corruption and moral decay.

He however, praised women who kept on working under hardships.

"I salute women who remain honest in a low-paying job...[and those who] nurture their children despite their own hardship."