Deputy President Paul Mashatile on Wednesday called on all to work together to address the interconnected issues of gender transformation and economic transformation in a comprehensive and impactful manner.

Speaking at the P20 Women’s Parliament in Cape Town on Wednesday, Mashatile said gender inequality can no longer be allowed to plague society and hold back the potential and contributions of women.

“This means we must work hard to ensure that policies, programmes, and initiatives aimed at economic development prioritise gender equality and transformation,” he said.

He also said women should be provided with the tools, resources, skills, and opportunities they require to make their dreams a lived reality.

“However, as we engage in this process, we must be cognisant of the fact that the policies, programmes, and resources we introduce are aimed at improving women’s well-being, addressing gender gaps, and fostering inclusive growth.”

Mashatile acknowledged the considerable progress the nation has achieved in gender equality and inclusive governance.

“Today, we are proud to witness the inclusion of women in leadership positions in government and in the private sector.”

He stated that although the contribution of women has brought the apartheid regime to its knees and ushered in a democratic dispensation, the fight for gender equality continued.

Mashatile stated that progress has been made in establishing a democratic system and eliminating apartheid’s legislative framework, as envisioned by the Freedom Charter, but the question was whether progress was made towards gender equality and inclusion.

“The reality is that, despite an increase in representation in Parliament since 1994, as I have already mentioned, most sectors of our economy remain male-dominated.

“This indicates that we have not fully realised the ideals of the Freedom Charter; hence, we need to act decisively to achieve equitable representation in all areas of our society.”

He said true democracy can only flourish when all individuals were treated with dignity and respect and have access to equal opportunities.

“Gender equality is not only a struggle for a fundamental human right, but it is also essential for achieving sustainable development, promoting peace and security, and fostering a more just and inclusive society.

“Regardless of our sex and gender orientation, all of us must be motivated to continue the fight for gender equality.”

Mashatile called on leaders to consider women’s needs and prioritise their empowerment to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and foster a more just and equal society.

“We must be persistent in advocating for legislative measures that will guarantee women-owned small, micro, and medium businesses access to working capital and inclusion in the mainstream economy.

“Without putting too much emphasis on the government’s role, the results of our efforts speak for themselves. When it comes to achieving gender equality, our nation has achieved a significant amount of progress.”

The deputy president also noted that Parliament passed progressive pieces of legislation that have enabled equitable representation of women in the mainstream economy, while ensuring that the rights and welfare of women are taken care of.

He was referring to the Employment Equity Act, Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act, and the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act.

“The government expanded the access of women to economic opportunities by setting aside 40% of public procurement for women-owned businesses.

“Through the National Empowerment Fund and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency, which both offer financial and non-financial support to SMMEs, there has been an increase in the amount of support provided to women-owned Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises.”

Mashatile also said the government has launched the Technology Innovation Agency, a unique initiative aimed at empowering women in technology and innovation.

“Despite many of these interventions, we continue to face the scourge of violence against women and children,” he said, adding that the government signed three new pieces of legislation to combat gender-based violence and femicide in 2022.

mayibongwe.maqhina@inl.co.za

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