Zikalala Calls for Enhanced Women's Participation in Construction Industry at SAWIC Conference

The Deputy Minister emphasized the need for more inclusive growth, job creation, and skills development.

In a call for transformative change in the construction industry, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala emphasized the need for increased participation of women and preferential procurement practices targeting women-run businesses. Speaking at the South African Women In Construction (SAWIC) policy and elective conference in Jeppestown, Johannesburg, Zikalala underscored the importance of empowering women within the built environment.

The two-day conference, which marks a return to regular elective meetings after disruptions in 2022 and 2023, serves as a pivotal platform for discussing policies and programs aimed at advancing women's roles in construction. Established in 1997, SAWIC plays a crucial role in supporting and empowering women in the construction and built environment sectors.

Zikalala expressed a commitment to ongoing collaboration with SAWIC to drive transformation within the industry. "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," he said. He highlighted the significance of the conference taking place amidst National Treasury's consultations on infrastructure procurement regulations in line with the newly enacted Public Procurement Act. Zikalala urged the conference to reflect on how women can benefit from these new regulations.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the need for more inclusive growth, job creation, and skills development. He called for the private sector to partner with the government in building a robust skills pipeline, particularly for women, and increasing business opportunities for them. “More needs to be done to ensure the meaningful participation of women,” Zikalala asserted, stressing that programs must address skills shortages and enhance business opportunities for women.

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 the historic march of 20,000 women to the Union Buildings in protest against the extension of pass laws to women. The Deputy Minister’s call reflects a broader commitment to honoring that legacy by fostering an inclusive and equitable environment in South Africa’s construction industry.

 

 

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