Women in leadership: Progress and opportunities in the business sector
By: Sakhile Kweyama
As we celebrate Women's Month, it is important to see just how many women are thriving in leadership roles in the business sector.
According to Statistics SA, there is an increasing amount of women entering traditionally male-dominated industries. This shows that women's empowerment and influence
Although men are leading in leadership roles, more and more women are moving into management roles in the public sector.
Stats SA revealed that the percentage of women in middle management positions increased by 46.4%, an increase from 45.2%. Although a small increase, it shows that gender disparity is inching out.
Women, 35 and younger, are also more likely to hold positions of middle management and senior management.
Speaking at a Women's Day event, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government is committed to expanding economic opportunities for women through skills training, entrepreneurial support, access to funding and multi-sectoral partnerships to place women in key sectors of the economy.
"Government also seek to increase women's role in digital finance which includes digital banking, payments, access to finance and investments.
"Women-led enterprises are being supported through policies, mentorships and funding. Through capacity building initiatives, we aim to increase the participation of women in politics, business and civil society," he said.
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