Advancing Women’s Empowerment in the Human Settlements Sector with the 2023 Indaba and Exhibition

The Human Settlements Women Indaba and Exhibition, set to take place on August 19th and 20th, 2023, in Kimberley, Northern Cape, is a remarkable event aimed at empowering women in the human settlements sector. The two-day event, hosted by Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi and Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete, will showcase and unlock socio-economic opportunities for women in this vital industry.

Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women Empowerment

With the theme “Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women Empowerment,” the Indaba aims to attract around 500 stakeholders from various organizations. Despite the fact that women have played a central role in housing delivery over the years, their full participation in the sector remains limited. The Indaba seeks to address this issue by promoting value chain opportunities that will enhance the socio-economic empowerment of women, such as access to markets, finance, and innovative building technologies.

Highlighting the Transformation Agenda for Women in the Sector

The Indaba coincides with the nation’s Women’s Month celebrations, emphasizing the importance of spotlighting the transformation agenda for women in the sector. The event highlights government efforts to empower women through policy enforcement, which includes allocating 40% of government procurement spending to women-owned businesses, implementing skill development programs for women and women-owned businesses, and supporting female entrepreneurs in establishing businesses and gaining experience through incubator and mentorship initiatives.

Outcomes with Significance

Outcomes from the Indaba will significantly contribute to shaping the future of women empowerment in the human settlements sector. These results will be integrated into the new Medium Term Strategic Framework, scheduled to commence in 2024, and ultimately influence the National Development Plan.

Media Engagements and Panel Discussions

Members of the media are invited to attend various sessions and panel discussions to be held during the event. The opening session will take place on 19th August 2023 at 09h00 at Lucrecia Primary School, Roodepan, Kimberley. A Financial Access and Capacitation Panel Discussion will be held at 13h00, providing insights into the financial aspects of women empowerment. On the second day, Regulation and Market Access, along with Innovative and Alternative Building Technologies Panel Discussions, will take place at 09h00, offering a unique perspective on the regulatory challenges and innovative solutions available for women in the human settlements sector. The Indaba will conclude with a report back and closing session, summarizing the significant points discussed and mapping the path forward for women empowerment in the industry.

Media Opportunities

There will be opportunities for media engagements throughout the event. For further information, media personnel can contact Isaac Skhosana (076 875 5681, Isaac.Skhosana@dhs.gov.za) or Tebogo Montse (082 886 6721, Teboho.Montse@dhs.gov.za).

The 2023 Human Settlements Women Indaba and Exhibition is a testament to the ongoing commitment to women empowerment and gender equality in the human settlements sector. By providing a platform for networking, learning, and policy development, the event aims to propel women to the forefront of this essential industry, ultimately benefiting the nation as a whole.