By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
As part of the government’s effort to empower women in business and promote economic inclusion, A R300 million Women Entrepreneurship Fund was recently launched by the Minister of Small Businesses Development,Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, alongside the Premier of Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu, at Anew Hotel in eMalahleni.
The fund is reportedly geared towards promoting gender-lens investing and develop solutions that cater to the needs of women entrepreneurs.
Ndabeni said it is important to give women their rightful place in the economy, and the fund will address their specific needs and challenges.
“This fund must be designed by women themselves, wherever they are, so that it truly addresses their needs. By mid-September, we will begin consultations. This fund has to be different; it must give women their rightful place in the economy,” said Ndabeni.
The launch featured an inspiring success story from Dimakatso Kanyanene, from Siyabuswa in Nkangala District, who is the founder of Dillets, a SEDFA-funded MSME that won Start-Up Business of the Year at the 2024 National MSME and Cooperatives Awards.
Kanyanene’s establishment reportedly produces 3 million sanitary towels monthly, manufacturing 14,000 units per hour. Her business is said to contribute to job creation and economic growth by employing 8 young people permanently. Kanyanene’s progress was hailed as a testament to the potential of women entrepreneurs in South Africa.
Premier Ndlovu expressed his support for the Women Entrepreneurship Fund and the envisaged role it will play in empowering women in business.
“ We are excited that our province was chosen to host the launch of this groundbreaking program, which aims to empower women entrepreneurs and support their economic development. The Women’s Fund is a vital initiative that will provide critical funding and support to women-led businesses, driving economic growth and job creation,” said Premier Ndlovu.
Other guests at the launch included, MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi from DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Mpumalanga Director-General, Maggie Skosana, SEDFA(Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency) Board Chairperson,Nonzuzo Makanda, as well as women in leadership, and entrepreneurs from various sectors.
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