When I think about the future of South Africa, one thing stands out: the undeniable importance of land ownership. Especially for women. It’s a powerful tool for empowerment. I am committed to seeing that power placed firmly in the hands of women across our country.
Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, who heads the department for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, shares this commitment. She’s making sure that women are at the forefront of the conversation. Here’s how we’re putting the spotlight on empowering women in South Africa:
1. Prioritising Land Ownership for Women
Land ownership is more than just a piece of paper—it’s a gateway to wealth, power, and independence. Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga is leading the charge, making sure that women are no longer left out in the cold. “We are determined to see to it that women take ownership and control of land for productive and commercial purposes,” she said. This is about turning land into wealth, and wealth into opportunities for women across the country.
2. Integrated Farming Cooperatives
To make land ownership truly impactful, we’re focusing on integrated farming value-chain cooperatives. These cooperatives are designed to give women the tools they need to thrive. Whether it’s for agriculture or other economic activities, these initiatives ensure that women are not just landowners but leaders in their industries. “Land is wealth, wealth that has income-earning potential,” Chikunga emphasised.
3. Emerging Industrialists Accelerator Programs
Empowering women in key industries is essential for driving economic growth. That’s why the department has rolled out a series of Emerging Industrialists Accelerator Programs. These programs are tailored for women in critical sectors like energy, maritime, defence, aerospace, and agriculture. Chikunga highlighted that the successful Sola Mamas initiative will be scaled up, saying, “Participating emerging industrialists will work alongside experienced industry associations, receiving support from ideation through to product development, financing, market access, and commercialisation pathways.”
4. Establishing an Emerging Industrialists Fund
To back these initiatives, the department is advocating for the creation of an Emerging Industrialists Fund. This fund is specifically aimed at transforming young people’s ideas into viable economic activities. Chikunga believes in the potential of this fund to create real change, stating, “Investment must come from both the public and private sectors, but the state must take the lead as the investor of first resort.”
5. Boosting Women’s Participation in Tourism
Tourism in Mpumalanga has limitless potential, and it’s crucial that women benefit from it—not just as employees but as owners. Chikunga has made it clear that young women should be channelled into this industry as operators of tourism infrastructure, helping to shape the future of South Africa’s tourism landscape.
6. National Youth Service (NYS) Opportunities
The future of South Africa depends on our youth. That’s why the National Youth Service (NYS) is being expanded to ensure that at least 50% of the recruits are women. These opportunities are particularly important for young women in rural areas and farming communities. As Chikunga pointed out, “We must make sure that the youth of this province, particularly rural youth and those in farming communities, are not left behind.”
7. Training in Emerging Technologies
We’re also focused on training emerging industrialists in cutting-edge technologies. The department is rolling out training programs in the design, manufacturing, and application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs/drones). These technologies are vital in industries like mining, construction, oil, and gas. Chikunga explained, “We will be training emerging industrialists in the design, manufacturing, piloting and applications of UAVs—from small drones used to inspect borders to large fixed-wing UAVs applied in mining, construction, oil, and gas.”
8. Advocating for Women’s Land Rights
Despite our progress, only about 13% of land in South Africa is owned by women. This statistic is a stark reminder of the work ahead. But with determination and collaboration, we can change this narrative. Chikunga and I, along with many others, are committed to making sure that women have the land, wealth, and power they deserve.
This isn’t just a plan; it’s a promise. We are on the path to a more equitable, prosperous future for all South Africans. Let’s make it happen. Together.