Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Tshwane: A Path to Economic Emancipation
South Africa is home to a diverse array of women who are contributing significantly to various sectors of the economy. With over 2.4 million women in the community social services sector, nearly 1.56 million in the trade industry, and around 1.3 million in the finance sector, women are playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and development.
However, despite their numbers, women entrepreneurs still face significant challenges in sustaining their businesses compared to their male counterparts. Studies show that male entrepreneurs have almost twice the number of established businesses (7.9%) compared to female entrepreneurs (4.1%), highlighting the gender gap in entrepreneurship.
Empowering women in business is not just about starting new ventures but also about ensuring their sustainability and growth. When women have equal access to economic opportunities, they not only uplift themselves but also make significant contributions to their families, communities, and national economies.
The recent Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA) celebrated the achievements of women who are breaking barriers, leading innovation, and uplifting others in the business world. Under the theme “Advocating Diversity and Inclusion of Tshwane Women Trailblazers for Economic Emancipation,” the awards highlighted the remarkable contributions of female business owners to Tshwane’s economy.
Dr. Nasiphi Moya, Executive Mayor of Tshwane, emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting women entrepreneurs who are driving change and shaping a more inclusive and thriving economy. The event showcased the innovation, resilience, and leadership of women entrepreneurs who are essential to Tshwane’s economic development.
Despite the progress made, women in business still face barriers such as unequal access to funding, markets, and networks, as well as societal norms that limit their opportunities. Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort from government, private sector, and civil society.
Tshwane’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs is evident through initiatives like the Tshwane Agri-Parks Programme, which supports over 700 small-scale farmers, many of whom are women, in strengthening food security and promoting local economic resilience. The city is also leading renewable energy and waste management projects in the Green Economy sector, with women playing a vital role.
Furthermore, Tshwane’s public procurement policies prioritize women-owned businesses, ensuring equitable access to city tenders and diversifying the supply chain. The city’s focus on industry, innovation, and infrastructure aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 9 and has led to the rise of women-led startups in green technologies.
Through public-private partnerships, Tshwane is amplifying the impact of its initiatives and unlocking resources, expertise, and networks that benefit women in business. The city envisions a future where women-led businesses are the norm, not the exception, and where women are leaders in key sectors such as technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance.
By recognizing and supporting women entrepreneurs, Tshwane is creating an environment where the next generation of women leaders can thrive, dream without limits, and achieve without obstacles. Together, we can empower women entrepreneurs in Tshwane towards economic emancipation and sustainable development.
