Caption: MEC Hlophe addressing the women in attendance
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Song and dance were the order of the day during the Women’s Dialogue led by Mpumalanga MEC for the DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Nompumelelo Hlophe, held at the Ridge Dome in Emalahleni, Nkangala District.
According to a statement by DARDLEA, the successful event was organised to empower women, recognise their role in the Agricultural sector, reflect on their gains to uncover what they require in order to succeed.
DARDLEA also said that MEC Hlophe urged all women to support each other and to make a meaningful difference in other people’s lives, be it in the family, church, workplace and in any sector of the society. Hlophe also highlighted the strides that DARDLEA has made in relation to Employment Equity.
“ Addressing vibrant crowd of women from various districts, MEC Hlophe commended them for their efforts in various areas of society. She further added that women should find a way to support other women in leadership irrespective of the level they are in as well as those that have started agricultural projects,” said DARDLEA.
The women in attendance raised their concerns and recommendations to the MEC, such as the need to improve training and skills development, access to bursaries, mentorship, access to land and grants, funding of programmes, employment opportunities and employment of more psychologists.
“ The event also focused on women empowerment, growth and health, inclusion in the workplace, types of marriages in South Africa, gender-based violence, diversity awareness, non-communicable and communicable diseases, financial education and crucial role women play in supporting local farmers,” DARDLEA concluded.
