President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated the South African government’s commitment to empowering women through various avenues to elevate their presence in decision-making positions across diverse sectors. Speaking during the Women’s Day commemorations in Pretoria, President Ramaphosa highlighted the strides made since the nation’s independence in 1994, emphasizing legislation enacted to safeguard and elevate women’s status.
Women’s Day, observed annually on August 9, holds historical significance as it honors the women who marched against the oppressive law that required black individuals to carry identity documents for entry into “whites only” spaces. President Ramaphosa acknowledged this legacy, noting the ongoing efforts to drive gender equality.
One of the primary avenues for promoting women’s economic empowerment is through public procurement. President Ramaphosa declared, “The government is firmly backing women’s economic advancement through public procurement.” An ambitious commitment has been set to allocate a minimum of 40 percent of public procurement to businesses owned by women. This initiative seeks to level the playing field and foster growth for women-owned enterprises.
Significant headway has been made since 2020, with the government generating employment and livelihood opportunities for over 1.2 million individuals, with women constituting more than 60 percent of this workforce. This statistic underscores the government’s dedication to addressing gender disparities in the workforce.
President Ramaphosa underscored the increasing representation of women across various domains. “Within the Cabinet, half of the ministers are women. This trend continues in Parliament, the judiciary, the public service, the armed forces, the police, and numerous local councils. We are steadily moving closer to achieving gender parity,” President Ramaphosa stated.
Efforts to empower women extend beyond numbers and quotas. The South African government has consistently pursued measures to enhance education and awareness about gender equality. These initiatives encompass grassroots campaigns, educational programs, and support systems to challenge societal norms and foster an inclusive society.
As South Africa continues to mark Women’s Day, the commitment to women’s empowerment remains resolute. The nation’s progress reflects a collective determination to break down barriers, create opportunities, and build a more equitable future. President Ramaphosa’s statements underline the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering an environment where women’s voices are not only heard but hold substantial influence.
