The KwaZulu-Natal Women Economic Assembly (WECONA) is making a significant impact on the economic landscape of South Africa by empowering women-owned, managed, and led businesses and enterprises. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, and Bongi Sithole-Moloi, MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, are leading the provincial rollout of WECONA.
WECONA: A Catalyst Platform for Collaboration
WECONA is a platform that fosters collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society. Its primary goal is to encourage economic activity among women and create a space where stakeholders can come together to drive meaningful change.
Africa’s Women Entrepreneurs and Role Models
In Africa, women entrepreneurs are more than just business leaders; they are also role models. Minister Dlamini Zuma stated that these women are nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs through mentorship programs, training workshops, and community initiatives, ensuring the legacy of and participation of women in business thrives.
WECONA and Pillar 5 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide
WECONA is in line with Pillar 5 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. The initiative emphasizes the need to create more economic opportunities for women who are vulnerable to abuse due to poverty, unemployment, and social inequality.
WECONA: Transforming Industries
WECONA has already resulted in transformational conversations with industry associations and representatives to establish procurement targets. This ensures that women-owned businesses have a larger role in business value chains by advocating for the implementation of 40% preferential public procurement for such enterprises. These dialogues have led to significant initiatives in various sectors, including the financial and automotive industries, ultimately transforming the way business is conducted.
WECONA: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Through the efforts of Minister Dlamini Zuma and MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi, WECONA is proving to be an essential platform for empowering women entrepreneurs, transforming industries, and promoting a more inclusive and diverse economic landscape. As the initiative gains momentum, it is expected that it will create more opportunities for women, contributing to a more equitable society and a brighter future for aspiring female entrepreneurs across South Africa.
A Call for Collaboration and Support
As WECONA continues to expand and inspire, it remains crucial for stakeholders at all levels to come together and support the growth and development of women-owned businesses. By promoting collaboration and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of women, WECONA is helping to shape a more prosperous and diverse economic future for South Africa.
In conclusion, the KwaZulu-Natal Women Economic Assembly’s impact on the economic landscape of South Africa is apparent. Initiatives like WECONA highlight the importance of government, private sector, and civil society collaboration to empower women in business and foster a more inclusive economy. The legacy of Minister Dlamini Zuma and MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi’s efforts will continue to inspire future generations of female entrepreneurs, creating a more equitable society and brighter future for all.
