The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) is set to honor exceptional women in the agricultural sector at an upcoming event. The Women Entrepreneur Awards ceremony, an annual event, seeks to empower women by recognizing their contributions to the province’s agricultural economy.
Recognizing Outstanding Women
MEC Nonkqubela Pieters will present awards to top-performing women in agriculture in the province on August 17, 2023. The event will take place in Qumbu, and the awards will honor women who have already won district-level awards in multiple categories.
Investing in Women-Owned Enterprises
The DRDAR has long supported women-owned enterprises involved in various agricultural commodities across the province. This ongoing program seeks to commercialize agriculture and invest in businesses to ensure their sustainability.
The provincial level awards will feature 15 women-owned businesses. They will vie for top honors in categories such as Best Female Worker, Best Subsistence Producer, Top Entrepreneur: Commercial, Top Entrepreneur: Export Markets, Top Entrepreneur: Processing, and Top Entrepreneur: Smallholder.
Supporting Youth and Disabled Individuals
MEC Pieters is committed to supporting those living with disabilities and the youth in the agricultural sector. She will present unique awards to enterprises owned by young and disabled individuals from the hosting OR Tambo District.
Promoting Gender Equality
In recent years, women in agriculture have taken on leadership positions and broken down barriers. The Women Entrepreneur Awards and the DRDAR’s ongoing initiatives to support women-owned businesses play a crucial role in promoting gender equality and empowering women in this vital economic sector.
Investing in the Future
Agriculture is a crucial source of income for many rural communities and has immense potential for economic growth and job creation. By recognizing and supporting women’s contributions to agriculture, the Eastern Cape government is investing in the future of the province, fostering growth and sustainability.
Inspiring Others
The Women Entrepreneur Awards are more than just recognition of individual accomplishments; they are a reflection of the collective achievements of women in agriculture. These awards inspire others to follow in their footsteps, pushing boundaries and driving innovation in the sector.
Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future
As the world faces increasing food security challenges, the role of women in agriculture becomes even more critical. Female farmers play a vital part in ensuring the success of both their communities and the larger global community. By empowering women in agriculture, we are investing in a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
The Women Entrepreneur Awards are a testament to the progress made by women in agriculture, demonstrating the valuable role they play in the sector and the province’s economy. The Eastern Cape government’s commitment to empowering women and fostering growth in this vital industry is an essential investment in the future.
Members of the media are encouraged to attend the event at Qumbu Multi-purpose Centre on August 17, 2023, at 10:00 am. For more information, please contact Mr. Thozi Manyisana at 082 494 3600.
