Lamola Welcomes Norway’s Support in Addressing South Africa’s Triple Challenges
August 30, 2024Trains Set to Transport Fans to Springboks vs. All Blacks Game
August 30, 2024Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala has emphasised the need for greater female involvement in the built industry, highlighting the use of preferential procurement to support women-run businesses.
Addressing the South African Women In Construction (SAWIC) policy and elective conference in Jeppestown, Johannesburg, Zikalala called for continued engagement with SAWIC to advance transformation within the sector by prioritising the empowerment of black women.
Founded in 1997, SAWIC is dedicated to supporting women in the construction and built environment sectors. The organisation is set to elect new leadership after not holding an elective conference in 2022 and 2023 due to internal challenges.
“We look to your conference to adopt policies and programmes that will collectively change the face of the construction industry and unlock its true potential,” Zikalala said.
He noted the conference’s timing is significant as it coincides with ongoing consultations by the National Treasury to finalise infrastructure procurement regulations under the newly enacted Public Procurement Act. He urged the conference to consider how the Act could benefit women in the industry.
Zikalala expressed confidence that the conference’s policy proposals would aid the government in driving inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and addressing the high cost of living, while building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
“More needs to be done to ensure the meaningful participation of women,” he stated. “We urge the private sector to collaborate with us in developing a skills pipeline in both the construction and property sectors. Our programmes must address skills shortages among women and increase business opportunities for them.”
Zikalala’s remarks come as Women’s Month, celebrated in August, concludes. This year’s Women’s Day on 9 August marked 68 years since 20,000 women from various backgrounds marched on the Union Buildings to protest the extension of pass laws to women.
4o mini