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National Women’s Month Tabloid 2008

August 2008

National Women’s Day 2008

WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN IN THE MARCH TOWARDS GENDER EQUITY,

POVERTY ALLEVIATION AND JOB CREATION!

MY BODY OUR SOUL

Standing by the road sideSitting on the darkened

sofaIn a darkened lounge

Braving the weather and the stares

You look into meYou look into your soul

Face plasteredTo hide my pain

My body is my sole wareMy lips though red are

palePale of emotionFor this I must do

I massage your soulAs you touch my bodyI massage your ego

As you want ‘it’ on the go

I watch as you smileA smile of conquer

I smile because maybeI will have some to eat

By day I am despisedBy night I am lovedMy limbs you lustMy life you bust

My body‘Tis your soul ‘Tis in the soul

That we all are

I am a soul brotherI am a soul sister

I am a soldierDying in the line of duty

Dying in the line of passionThe passion of loveThe passion of lifeI am a soul cistern

You break me because I’m discarded

You break my body, you break our soul.

Xijekana

YOUBone of my bonesFlesh of my fl esh

“Woo! Man!”Adam was never the same.

You are so beautifulEveryone wants to touch youEveryone wants to have you

To own youTo keep you

Forever

But you belongTo you!You are

You!Magical Mystical

Emotional Spiritual

You are You!

August 9 is Women’s Day. It marks the anniver-sary of the great Wom-

en’s March of 1956, where women marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the carrying of pass books. On 9 August 1956, about 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pre-toria to protest against leg-islation aimed at tightening the apartheid government’s control over the movement of black women in urban areas. This year our coun-try and province hold vari-

ous activities to celebrate the signifi cant strides made by our

mothers and daughters. Events also focus on the hardship still faced by women and girl chil-dren. Such challenges include poverty, homelessness, HIV/Aids and domestic violence and rape.

Women leaders agree that women have come a long way in those sec-tors previously closed to women especially sec-tors such as business and politics, but believe that a lot more has to be done to improve the lives of all women, especially those in rural areas.

In a recent survey undertaken by the Business Woman’s Association (BWA) of South Africa it was

particularly obvious that while government

was far from perfect, the private sector was still way

behind with more than 37% of the 335 companies inves-

tigated having no women on their boards. The percentage of women employed in govern-ment positions across all salary levels totals 54.76%.

The census revealed that government’s advancement of women in terms of employ-ment equity was higher than in other sectors tradition-ally measured in the census, namely JSE-listed compa-nies and state owned enter-prises.

On the corporate side, the census showed that although there had been a steady increase in the employment of women in top executive positions, women were still lagging behind their male coun-terparts within corporate South Africa. “The results are positive but they also

show that we still have a long way to go. In most of the corporate cat-egories, there has been a very slight increase over the previous years and whilst we are encouraged we cannot allow ourselves to become compla-cent,” added Yvette Montalbano.

“People opposed to Women’s Abuse (POWA) say the issues chal-lenging women’s access to rights remain problematic.

“Inequality, unemployment, pov-erty, lack of housing, domestic vio-lence and rape still affect our women,” says Tiny Moloko. She called on gov-ernment, the corporate sector and women leaders themselves to do something “urgently” to alleviate the hardships.

“Government must begin to hold hands with NGOs that know and understand the plight of women. There are organisations offering women the critical support that they need but with very little resources. Government can assist by funding these organisations,” she added.

She says it is also important for the corporate sector to prioritise “women” in their CSI initiatives. “Create opportunities for women to develop their skills so that they can become employable. The economic empowerment of women will help alleviate problems associated with domestic violence and gender dis-crimination, because women who are unemployed are dependent on their abusive partners and husbands.”

She also urged women leaders to “support other women.” She added that women leaders must focus on “creating opportunities for other women”. “As women we are prone to the pull her down attitude. We must work together to support each other.” She says the focus in assisting women must shift away from the urban areas and into the “rural heartlands” where women are “most forgotten”.

Women leaders in general agree that advantaged women can do a lot to promote disadvantaged women. Women leaders have a duty to pro-mote other women. Gabi Gumbi-Masilela, the administrative head of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs says there is an unwritten expectation in being a female leader - the responsibility to champion the cause of women in the work place! She adds that this is understanda-ble considering the fact that women have been for so long denied their due place in leading positions and as a result they have been fi ghting for their emancipation.

“We have come a long a way and we need to keep the focus and consol-idate the gains to empower all women who look up to us,” she says.

Women leaders also believe that the perception of women in society must change for women to take their rightful place in society. This includes how society views the role of women and how media portrays women in their respective roles.

Kwazulu-Natal businesswoman May Mashoko says society and espe-cially the business world must forget viewing women as “appendages of their partners or husbands.” She said it was important for decision makers in society to wake up to the fact that men succeed because their partners and wives makes sacrifi ces to allow them to succeed.

Mary Papayya Secretary-General of the SA National Editor’s Forum says the messages that the media carry on women are also important to how society in the end viewed the role of women. She says if stories run con-sistently show women as victims and being inferior to men then the per-ception is lasting in the mind of the reader/listener/viewer.

Ingcugce Commemo-

Ingcugce Commemo-

Ingcugce CommemIngcugce Comm

CC

KwaZulu-NatalIngcugce Commemoratio

KwaZulu-Natal Premier: Mr Sibusiso Ndebele

BUSINESS UNUSUAL: BUSINESS UNUSUAL: ALL POWER TO WOMENALL POWER TO WOMEN

KwaZulu-Natal KwaZulu-Natal Offi ce of the PremierOffi ce of the Premier

The KwaZulu-Natal’s Provincial Government’s annual commemora-tion of National Women’s Month reaf-fi rms the power of women to work together to bring about fundamental change in society. In our quest for a better life for all the challenge of gender equity remains one of our cornerstone priorities, and this agenda for social change requires a fi rm partnership among government, the private sector, civil society institutions and civil society itself. As a nation we must use this op-portunity to refl ect on our past,

our victories and defeats, to draw inspiration as we chart the way for-ward towards gender equity. As we commemorate Women’s Month we should bear in mind the heroic sacri-fi ces of women who struggled for de-mocracy, socio-economic progress, equality and opportunity for all. 2008 National Women’s Month marks the 52nd anniversary of the 1956 march which coincides with the 90th anniversary of the Bantu Women’s League and the 50th an-niversary of the Zeerust anti-pass march – iconic moments of the role of women in shaping the history of our country and plight of our people. Today, the freedom and rights we enjoy are directly linked to the role of women in the struggle for liberation. We have a patriotic duty to actively participate in further entrenching our democracy; social cohesion and

values enshrined in our Constitution; and to push the boundaries of the progress achieved in the 14 years of democracy. In doing so we must seek to banish all forms of gender oppression, free women from the chains of poverty and ensure that the rights we enjoy are enjoyed by all the people of our province and country. “Our vision of a truly non-sexist so-ciety is dependent on our collective effort. Our freedom is not complete until the women of our society are free and equal”.

A better life for all.A better life for all.

Masisukume Sakhe.Masisukume Sakhe.

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

CELEBRATING THE AGE-LESS SPIRIT OF WOMEN

THROUGH THE ARTS

Women artists that performed at the South African Women’s

Art Festival

Celebrating the age-less spirit of women, Women of Dzonga, a

powerhouse stage musical pres-entation, is also featured South African Women’s Arts Festival. The production, which has won acclaim with audiences in Gau-teng, and in the Netherlands, is directed and choreographed by multi-award winning dancer and choreographer, Portia Mashigo. Women of Dzonga (Women of the South) features a vibrant cast of 12 women who sing, dance and drum in a colourful and highly energetic show that embraces a wide variety of per-formance genres. These include mbaqanga music, domba dance, accapella singing, contempo-rary dance, kwasa kwasa, and even items from Sophiatown, among other styles. The pro-duction, whose cast members

span three generations rang-ing in age from 19 to 55 years, stands as a striking celebration of the joy and strengths of black women in South African soci-ety as they meet its challenges in the 21st Century. The produc-tion portrays the way women celebrate important moments in their lives both in traditional and modern culture, supporting each other in the process. Cast-ing includes Hlengiwe Msibi, Malebo Rakgokgo, Mapula Tele, Matshidiso Mokoka, Mbali Nkosi, Mpumi Gumede, Nichollete Hlat-shwayo, Pauline Nkosi, Thandi Sesi Nkwanyana, Thembeka Mavuso, Thoko Madontsela and Thuli Radebe.

New Classics is also another key feature at the festival. It features the choreography of acclaimed dance luminary, Desiré Davids. The work was created

on five leading Durban-based dancers, Zinhle Gumede, Liselle Sproull, Louise Fraquet-Golding, Quinton Ribbonaar and Dav-ids herself. The work’s creation involved collaboration with the dancers, utilizing their strengths by incorporating elements of contemporary and African dance as well as classical ballet in this piece. Building on their individ-ual strengths proved an excit-ing process. While New Classics does not pursue a traditional story line, it is accessible to audi-ences all ages. The participa-tion Zulu traditionalists, Omama Boxolo (The Mothers of Peace), infused a vein of authentic Isigekle performance into this highly unusual fusion of styles.

Also on show is Duma Ndlo-vu’s acclaimed stage drama, The

Game. Directed by Ndlovu him-self, the production’s all-female cast features a dazzling line-up of top South African stage, movie and television stars. These include Leleti Khumalo, Cindi Dlathu, Mary Twala, Londiwe Mthembu, Lucia Mthiyane, Phumel-ephi Mthombeni, Simpiwe Ngema, Jo-Anne Reyneke and Thandazile Soni.

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

The Playhouse Compa-ny’s 12th South Afri-can Women’s Arts Festi-

val (SAWAF) is underway at The Playhouse in Durban. It ends on Sunday 16 August. This annual showcase of the impact women make on the lives of South Afri-cans enjoys a national profi le on our arts calendar. True to form, this year’s festival comprises cut-ting edge productions of poetry,

music, drama and dance, and fea-tures the talent of noted women in their fields of performance art.

The musical production, Women of Dzonga (Women of the South) ran from 6 – 9 August in the Loft theatre. This featured a powerhouse line-up of women performers in a mixed medley of show-stoppers from a variety of genres. These include mbaqanga

m u s i c , d o m b a dance, acapella sing-ing, contemporary dance, kwasa kwasa, and even items from Sophiatown, among other elements. The production portrays the way women cel-ebrate important moments in their lives both in tradi-tional and modern culture, supporting

each other in the process. SAWAF’s 2008 Gala Con-

cert features two of South Afri-ca’s most enduring music leg-ends, Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya, and hot-property music star, Durban’s own Swazi Dlamini, providing a triple act with phenomenal box office appeal in this year’s SAWAF Gala Concert.

A much loved audience favourite in this country and abroad, Letta is a South Afri-can Music Awards for Lifetime Achievement honoree, whose performances fill her listeners with joy. Caiphus Semenya like-

wise has built a hugely popular following second to none with music lovers over the years.

Local star Swazi Dlamini adds her own considerable box offi ce pull to this not-to-be-missed, Big League event. The concert’s Celebrity Programme Director is the acclaimed South African poet, Lebo Mashile

Other SAWAF attractions include an Open Mic Poetry ses-sion in the Grand Foyer on Sat-urday 9 August at 16h00 with Gcina Mhlophe as the anchor artist (admission free), a youth seminar presented in conjunction with the Offi ce of the Premiere

on Sunday 10 August from 08h30; and an all-stops-out Battle of the Women DJ’s in the Grand Foyer on 10 August from 17h30. This celebrates young women who have made their names in the local and national music industry as DJ’s. Featured celebrities in this field will include DJ Sindo, DJ Zinhle and DJ Sem.

Desiré Davids’ ground-breaking dance fusion piece, New Classics, makes a welcome return to the Drama from 14 to 16 August. This challeng-ing stage work features the choreography of one our leading dance lumi-naries, and has been cre-

ated on fi ve leading Durban danc-ers who have each won acclaim at home and abroad. They are Zinhle Gumede, Louise Fraquet-Golding, Lucile Sproull, Quinton Ribonaar and Davids herself. The production also features guest appearance by Zulu traditional-ists, Omama Boxolo (The Moth-ers of Peace).

Booking for all SAWAF pro-ductions is through Computicket on 083 915 8000 or The Playhouse Box Offi ce on 031-369 9540. For further information, contact the Playhouse Company’s Marketing Department on 031-369 9456 or alternatively by email at market-ing@playhousecompany.com

10 NEGOTIATION TIPS FROM WOMEN IN THE

TRENCHES 1. The Mars/Venus rela-

tionship needs to be top of mind in business nego-tiations. Communication styles between men and women are different and as a result, nego-tiations can be complex. Our advice: keep your communica-tion style direct by sharing plans, not concepts. Think collaboration not confrontation.

2. Use mentors to help refine your negotia-

tion skills. Given that you will be negotiating with both men and women, pick a mentor from Mars and Venus to get perspec-tive from both sides of the com-munication spectrum. Practice makes perfect, so our advice: Practice, practice, practice.

3. Women tend to think of getting along vs.

getting what they want. Be clear about what you want and prac-tice asking for it in a calm, direct manner. Our advice: don’t be con-frontational. Getting fi red-up and emotional may have an adverse reaction.

4. Negotiation is a con-versation and you may

risk getting off-track. Our advice: stay focused; remain on point and on course to avoid a nego-tiation disaster.

5. Gaining buy in along the way will get you

closer to your goal faster. Making sure that the other party is being heard is a sign of respect and will be appreciated. Our advice: repeat the points of the other side and use language such as “Let me make sure I completely understand your point.”

6. Successful negotiat-ing requires prepara-

tion. Be prepared with a strong understanding of your needs and motivation’s, as well as the other side. Our advice: do your research, gather together rele-vant information and if it’s com-plicated, get outside expertise from a mentor or colleague.

7. Creative solutions are well respected,

especially if they demonstrate a strong understanding for the

goals of the business. Our advice: Most points are negotiable and remember; it’s not always about money. Think add-on’s, better terms or additional services.

8. Starting with your bot-tom line may close the

door on negotiations. Our advice: be prepared to compromise and expect the other party to compro-mise as well.

9. Being fair is not a loss. It shows that you are will-

ing to adjust your expectations to meet the needs of the other side. Our advice: ask the ques-tion, “Why don’t you tell me what you think is fair.” You may be surprised at the answer.

10. Negotiating is a proc-ess not an event. One

conversation may not culminate in a fi nal decision. Our advice: be willing to say, “Let me think about that and get back to you in 24 hours.

- CareerWomen.com

WOMEN’S ARTS FESTIVAL

Up to 1,500 women’s rights leaders and activists from around

the world will converge in Cape Town from November 14-17 for the 11th Association for Wom-en’s Rights in Development (AWID) International Forum to discuss the power of move-ments. AWID is an international membership organisation that works to strengthen the voice, impact and influence of wom-en’s rights advocates, organiza-tions and movements interna-tionally to effectively advance the rights of women. The event will bring together women’s rights leaders and activists from around the world every three years to strategize, network, celebrate, and learn in a highly charged atmosphere that fos-ters deep discussions and sus-tained personal and professional growth. Delegates to the Forum participate in four days of ple-nary speeches, interactive ses-sions, workshops, debates, and creative sessions geared to pow-erful thinking on gender equality and women’s human rights. Dele-gates also participate in informal caucuses, gala events, cultural activities, and social and politi-cal events geared to global and regional networking and alliance-

building. According to the organ-isers participation in the AWID Forum is open to anyone who works or has an interest in wom-en’s rights, international devel-opment, and social justice. AWID particularly welcomes women and men from the Global South, young women, and marginal-ized groups that have had diffi -culty getting their agenda heard on a global stage. The confer-ence aims to enlighten, provoke and inspire. There will be lots to learn and an abundance of new skills, new knowledge, new col-leagues, and new ideas for the long road ahead. The theme of the 2008 forum is “The Power of Movements”. Some of the goals of the forum include:

Taking significant steps to overcome the fragmentation within women’s movements

To advance the thinking on how to develop comprehensive political agendas to address the multiple structural dimensions of women’s oppression

To contribute to the process of building strategic alliances with other social movements and

Continue multi-build the overall capacity of participants

For more Information: www.awid.org/forum08

WORLD WOMEN’S

DEVELOPMENT MOVEMENT

MEETS IN CAPE TOWN

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

INTERNATIONALLY-INTERNATIONALLY-ACCLAIMED SOPRANO PUTS ACCLAIMED SOPRANO PUTS

THE PLAYHOUSE BACK INTO THE THE PLAYHOUSE BACK INTO THE FRONTLINEFRONTLINE

A Masters graduate from New York’s Juilliard School, Durban-born

Linda Bukhosini brings to bear considerable professional skills and hands-on experience in her chosen career, both as an arts administrator and as a leading arts practitioner.

She holds an honoured place in the SA Theatre world. She is the Chief Executive Offi cer and Artistic Director at the Playhouse Company in Durban.

She has brought ongoing dis-tinction to the organisation. Her most recent triumph being the June 2008 International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) Conference, Ubuntu the Cradle of Humanity, was hosted by the company. This marked the fi rst ever ISPA conference to be held on the African Continent.

As the Artistic Director of the Playhouse she has played an invaluable role in establishing an equitable distribution of per-formance opportunities for art-ists and art forms expressive of

all sectors of the community, thus fi rmly establishing herself as one of South Africa’s (and Africa’s) foremost arts adminis-trators. Bukhosini has achieved a dramatic turn-around in the operations of KwaZulu-Natal’s premiere performing arts com-plex since taking up her present appointment in December 2003. In less than a year, she has chalked up an ongoing series of artistic successes with pro-ductions that have put The Play-house Company back into the frontline of South Africa’s per-forming arts arena.

Under Bukhosini’s director-ship, Playhouse productions that have earned widespread praise and healthy box office returns have included: the youth oriented Hip Kulcha festival; the South African Women’s Arts Fes-tival (which she played a leading role in establishing nine years ago) ; the fi rst ever International Traditional Arts Festival to held in South Africa; a strongly sup-ported revival of the Mbongeni

Ngema classic, Asinamali; two seasons of New Stages repre-senting theatre from the New South Africa; a highly popular Playhouse Festive season pro-gramme; a sold-out schools edu-cation and development season in March; as well as a revival of the Playhouse’s Arts Disability programme in April.

Other bench-mark events have included the triumphant return of Opera as a performing art form to the Durban stage after sev-eral years, with Bravo Night at the Opera in April; and the dance comedy-drama, Chalo Cinema, showcasing the Nateshwar Dance Company in a glitzy Bollywood style extravaganza that drew a 100% capacity attendance.

On the international arts administration circuit Ms. Bukhosini formed part of a high-profi le South African delegation that attended the International Society of the Performing Arts Conference in New York during January 2005 (SEE BELOW FOR FOLLOW-UP).

In the performance arena, Ms. Bukhosini is recognized interna-tionally as one of South Africa’s leading lyric sopranos, noted for her highly evolved performance skills. She has appeared with leading conductors and world-renowned musicians in South Africa, the UK, Brazil, Germany, the United States, Russia, India, Malaysia and Algeria.

Ms. Bukhosini’s operatic engagements have included, among other roles, Margue-rite in Gounod’s Faust; Clara in Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess; the title role in Monteverdi’s L’Incoronzaione di Poppea; and, as a notable addition to her rep-ertoire, the critically acclaimed Lives of African Women in which she performed the gruelling role of Nomzamo, a survivor of polit-ical violence, as portrayed in this chamber opera written for her by the gifted Chicago-based South African composer, Bongani Ndadana.

As a guest artist, Ms. Bukhosini has performed before many lead-ing dignitaries including Presi-dent Thabo Mbeki; former Presi-dent Nelson Mandela; His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelethini; Kofi Annan; HM Queen Elizabeth II; and Achbishop Desmond Tutu. On the South African concert platform she has performed with the Johannesburg Philharmonic, the London Chamber Players, and regularly with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic orchestras, appearing in a wide-ranging rep-ertoire that has included, among other works, the soprano solos in Mahler’s Symphony No 4, Orff’s Carmina Buirana; Bach’s St. Mat-thew Passion and Mozart’s Exul-tate Jubilate.

A notable success in 2004 was Bukhosini’s portrayal of the principal role of Marzelline in Beethoven’s ‘freedom’ opera, Fidelio, staged with an interna-tional cast on Cape Town’s Robyn Island as part of the 10th anni-versary celebrations of South Africa’s democracy. In Novem-ber 2004 the soprano took part in several celebratory concerts in London and Germany, also marking 10 Years of democ-racy in South Africa. In 2005 she shared the stage with a line-up of top South African stars, appear-ing as Sophie in the fi nal act of Richard Strauss’s masterpiece, Der Rosenkavalier.

She appeared in the 2005 Afri-can Renaissance Gala Concert in Durban, alongside Bongani Tembe and the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra, reprising

Zizi Lethu, the major new concert piece in iziZulu that received its premieres in London and Ger-many last November.

PREMIER CHALLENGES KZN GROWTH COALITION TO TAKE GENDER EQUITY

SERIOUSLY

“

“

The following is an extract from Premier Ndebele’s address to the Growth Coalition

Despite the strides made in the political and eco-nomic climate, it is

critical and crucial to point out the strides made towards the advancement and empowerment of women and also list the chal-lenges we have faced.

Currently in KwaZulu-Natal we have four out of ten Members of the Executive Council (MECs) who are women. We have 14 provincial government depart-ments, 8 of which are headed by women. As early as 2004 we decided we would do everything which was aimed at changing the circumstances in which women found themselves. In particu-lar we have placed emphasis on unemployment and the ideologi-cal problems facing women.

Gender equality is taken very seriously by the state. The par-astatals attached to the state have also made strides and have appointed women in critical posi-tions managing budgets worth billions of rands.

Our ACSA Chief Financial Officer is, Priscilla Mabelana, our Post Offi ce Chairperson is Ms VF Mahlati, our Post Offi ce CEO is Ms MM Lefoka, our chief Operating Offi cer for the Public Investment Corporation is Alber-tina Kekana, our Transnet Group CEO Maria Ramos, and our Air-ports Company of South Africa Managing Director is Monhla Hlahla.

The businesses these women run are very big and are grow-ing rapidly. Despite what the doomsayers say, this does not mean that we have sacrificed effi ciency or have put women in position as window dressing. All the women appointed are recog-nised for their commitment and their smart and savvy approach to business.

Our task as government is to create a non racial, non sexist and democratic SOCIETY. And together we ask ourselves, have we done enough in the board-rooms or have we only created a non-racial, non-sexist and demo-cratic Government.

Mrs Weziwe Thusi, MPL

MEC for Arts,

Culture and Tourism

Mrs Stella Khumalo

Head of Department

Women in Arts, Culture and TourismWomen in Arts, Culture and TourismDevelopment through Arts, Culture and Tourism

Ms Judith Hawely

Deputy Manager:

Archives

Ms Sindi Paton-

Nyandeni

Deputy Manager:

Ukhahlamba Cluster

Ms Nosisa Ntuli

Deputy Manager:

Ethekwini Cluster

Ms Funi Makhanya

Manager: Special

Projects

Ms Nomthetho Sibisi

Deputy Manager:

Zululand Cluster

Ms Bongi Chirwa-

Mzoneli

Deputy Manager:

Language

Ms Bongeka Mjwara

Deputy Manager:

Library

Ms Thembi Khumalo

Deputy Manager:

Library

Ms Khululiwe Majola

Parliamentary offi cer

Ms Thembi Mahlobo

Deputy Manager

Pietermaritzburg

Cluster

Ms Ncumisa Fandesi

Media Liaison Offi cer

Ms Karen Van

Rensberg

Deputy Manager:

Finance

Ms Thandi Sokhela

Manager: Zululand

Cluster

Ms Kemi Pillay

Acting CFO

Ms Phumzile

Mwandla

Deputy Manager:

Archives

Dr Fikile Biyela

Manager:

Ukhahlamba cluster

Ms Nobom Dube

Head of Ministry

Ms Lindi Gwala

General Manager:

Corporate Services

Ms Sibongile Nzimande

General Manager:

Public Libraries &

Archives

Ms Banele Mthalane

Deputy Manager:

Legal Services

Ms Phumzile Radebe

Deputy Manager:

Communication

Ms Nelly Bhengu

PA to the MEC

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Day tomorrow, the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal joins the majority of people who ob-

serve such an important day in the history of our country.

We salute women who stood up against the injustices that were perpetrated against humanity. We owe these noble women a lot in terms of ensuring that their dream of a better world and a better South Africa is realised.

Those of us deployed in state institutions need to utilise all resources at our disposal to uplift women still lagging behind in terms of development. I am

proud to mention that the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism has risen to the challenge of ensuring that women do enjoy a better life.

Most of co-operatives that we work with are women. 39 percent of senior management in the Department is made up of women and we are working

very hard to ensure that we achieve the 50 percent threshold.

I am proud to present to you the women team from Deputy Director to Deputy Director General levels who are the movers and shakers in the De-partment. This is the team that supports me on a day to day basis to en-

sure that I deliver on the mandate given by the public. This is the team that ensures that the Department responds to the challenges facing the people of

this Province.

I wish all women a happy Women’s Day.

Weziwe Thusi, MPLMEC for Arts, Culture and Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

FLOWER SOLDIER (In beauty there is strength)

You cried at birthThere was joy in the home

Names are many but few that fi tThe person that is you.

What a beautiful childWhat a beautiful girl

What a beautiful womanFilling the hearts and minds

Of parents and family;Of young men and strangers.

Your swing sways the heartYour glow fi lls the mindMany loose their path

As they gaze at your beauty!All wishing to share moments everlasting

With you in eternity.

You are a soldierFor the nurturing of a future generation

You are a soldierWho fi ghts where others fear to tread.No gun can achieve what you create

No weapon can recreate life

You are the source of lightYou are the designer of minds and ideas

You are the architect of the future.Without you, there is no future.

Single or not, you are a motherSingle or not, you are a womanSingle or not, you have dignity

Single or not, you have the right to be!

Walk with prideMaterial medals you do not have;Material medals you do not need.

Medals we have in our hearts.

Forever we cherish youSoldier and fl ower!

You guard and you createSeed for the future

And hope for the futureFor tomorrowFlower soldier.

Eddie Mhlanga

DRESS FOR SUCCESSDRESS FOR SUCCESS

Dressing for success includes more than just choosing the right

outfi t. To complete your profes-sional look you must also con-sider accessories and personal grooming.

You should always dress to impress clients, investors, and customers, because a winning sales pitch is sometimes not enough to seal the deal. A wom-an’s professional appearance needs to support her professional accomplishments.

If your business attire is dis-tracting because it is too sexy,

drab, or colourful, your busi-ness contacts may focus on how you look, not on your business skills.

Simple, but Important Groom-

ing Tips for Business Women

* Perfumes, Scents, and Odours in the Work place: Do not let the fi rst impression you make about yourself be your personal scent preferences!

Avoid wearing perfume and heavily-scented products in all business settings. You might like them, but they have no place in a business environment. Scents can trigger asthma, overpower a room, and are often more offen-sive than pleasing to others.

Never smell like smoke (if you smoke in a car, your clothing will always pick up the odour).

* How to Present Professional

Looking Fingernails and Hands:

Women often use their hands to talk with so they become a focal point. It is important to have hands and fingernails looking professional -- not like you are heading out for a wild night on the town.

Nails should be clean, and trimmed or sculpted. Avoid wear-ing unusual or shocking nail col-ours. Nail art and nail jewels are not acceptable for business meet-ings.

* Hair styling Tips for Business

Women: Style should be neat and conservative, and prefera-bly off the face. With few excep-tions, hair colour should not be shocking or unusual (leave blue hair for Halloween). Hair sprays and gels that have a strong scent

or odour should be avoided. * Business Make-up Advice:

Keep it simple and appropriate for daytime.

* Appropriate Jewellery for

Business Women: Jewellery should not be noisy (no metal bangle bracelets), too large, or costume jewellery. Keep ear-rings small, simple, and above the earlobe. It is better to wear no jewellery at all, than too wear too much jewellery. But all busi-ness women should at least wear a nice, conservative wrist watch.

* Demonstrating that you care

about your personal appearance communicates to the person you are meeting with that they are important to you. Paying atten-tion to the details of your appear-ance sends a message to others that you will also pay close atten-tion to business details, and the needs of your customers and cli-ents.

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Dr Zweli Mkhize, MPPDr Zweli Mkhize, MPPMEC for Finance & MEC for Finance &

Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development is the custodian of the province’s economic advancement and hence it’s also fully aware of socio-economic disparities still marring our society. This has it’s roots from the discriminatory laws of the past. However, these socio-economic inequities are evident in terms of gender divide since the majority of women are still hovering on the basement of the social strata – making it imperative to be classified amongst priority groupings for accelerated economic empowerment.

Many of the projects pursued by the Department within the scope of empowerment are inclined towards women and other categories of the society such as youth and the impaired. This is reflected in the profile of the co-operatives and SMMEs funded or assisted by the Department. In demonstration of pushing for women’s socio-economic agenda, the Department had partnered with various women based organisations, including SAWEN. Numerous initiatives, including skills training in various sector specific business operations for women had been supported by the Department in partnership with other stakeholders such as The dti and this will continue until women are meaningfully affirmed in the country’s economy.

The Department therefore believes that the celebration of this year’s Women’s Month should be used to mark the successes being made by women in business in all levels of the economy. Their unwavering efforts should be highlighted to inspire many more women still trapped in poverty and other scores of socio-economic deprivations to come forward to seek support towards establishment of their own enterprises. With their internalized resilience, women have all the attributes of seizing the opportunities that could transform their lives and of the nation as a whole. The Department therefore salutes all the women of the province and urge them to remember that as we all partake in the celebration of their deserved 31 days of August 2008 they should not remove their feet on the accelerator pedals towards their real economic freedom.

The Department is also making progress in terms of exposing women in positions of responsibility within its ranks as reflected in the content of this page. The whole process of women empowerment enjoys full support of the MEC for Finance & Economic Development, Dr Zweli Mkhize who has been an inspiration to many women, including those in the outlying rural areas who had since formed their own co-operatives and SMME enterprises after launching the co-operatives movement in the province three years ago.

VIVA MBOKODO VIVA MNOTHO VIVA!!MNOTHO VIVA!!

Wom

en P

ower

@ D

ED

Wom

en P

ower

@ D

ED

Mrs Carol CoetzeeMrs Carol CoetzeeHead of DepartmentHead of Department

The Department is proud of many women that had heeded to the call to consider establishing their own enterprises to be able to overcome the rigors of unemployment, poverty and perennial dependence on government social grants. Some of them have their undying desire to rise above poverty muddied water shown in the images of this publication having been afforded an opportunity to showcase their products and services during the annual Royal Show under the auspices of a joint trade exhibition between the Department and the private sector.

TOGETHER, BUILDING A WINNING PROVINCE!!TOGETHER, BUILDING A WINNING PROVINCE!!

Mrs Amanda Mhlongo

Senior Manager for BEE

Mrs Smangele Manzi

Senior Manager for Co-operatives

Mrs Lindiwe Zondi

Senior Manager for Trade & Logistics

Mrs Gretta MthethwaExecutive

Chairperson of Liquor Board

Ms Navelene Thavar

Senior Manager for Legal Services

Ms Fikiswa Pupuma

General Manager for Trade & Sector Development

Mrs Carol CoetzeeHead of

Department

Department of Economic DevelopmentUmnyango WezokuthuthukiswaKomnotho

KWAZULU-NATAL

- 9 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

HITTING BRICK WALLS IN THE PROPERTY MARKET COULD BE

A THING OF THE PAST

Property owner Nokuthula Shabangu says women are disadvantaged in the property sector.

WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREADWHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD

Noxolo Ndzo – a fi refi ghter with purpose and determination

Noxolo Ndzo is breaking career gender stereo-types by boldly ventur-

ing into the realm of danger. She is a frontline fi refi ghter with the eThekwini Emergency and Res-cue Service and has the physical strength “muscle” to do the job as well as her male colleagues. Ndzo, 30, has been working in the unit for almost two years and has no qualms about the hazardous job she is in. She is one of a few women fi refi ghter’s in her unit. She says her experience shows that most women when signing up for the department prefers an “offi ce set up” but she and her woman colleagues prefer the thrill of fi ghting big fl ames.

“It is a tough job and very demanding and leaves no time for make up and beauty rou-tines or hairdos.” She is the fi rst to concede that doing what she does is not child’s play. “I have to work out in the gym. Eat well and stay fi t mentally and physically. It requires dedication. We have a gym on the premises and also attend outside health centres.” The uniform she wears is heavy and made of fi re protective mate-rials and fabrics. In addition the equipment used weighs a ton.

“We carry heavy tools. But being mentally and physi-cally fi t helps me overcome the hazard.”

Ndzo loves her job and enjoys being in the com-pany of her male colleagues. “They support me. But don’t think they are there to help me carry the heavy gadgets. I do so myself.” She says despite the heavy workload and the demands on the body women must not be put off from making fi re fi ghting their career. “There are many rewards in this job. Helping people and saving lives is a great honour. Women should not be scared to be exposed to dangerous situations. There will be times when you cry but the important thing is that we save lives.” Ndzo says there are many women in the unit but there is room for more.

The job is not easy. She has attended numer-

ous scenes where people were trapped in burning buildings and vehicles or seriously injured in shack fi res. “My job is a calling. The pain and trauma I wit-

ness is replaced by the joy of having saved a life”. She deals with the

trauma by acknowledg-ing it, talking about it and sometimes crying.

Asked how she made it in a fi eld dominated by

men, she is quick to pit out that it is about one’s mindset. “There are so many opportu-nities for women. To succeed

we must want to succeed and have positive

attitude.” She

says gone are the days when cer-tain jobs were the preserve of the male preserve. “The opportuni-ties are there and we can have them if we want it.”

“I am content to know that the kind of job that I do is critical and important to this nation. When we attend to fi res, the commu-nity out there appreciates us. I can honestly say that my job is not about the money. It is about saving lives.”

Ndzo believes in herself and she thought that her job was call-ing. “It’s an important weapon for women out there to believe to themselves.” She says with her job to serve people lives she also feed her family and send her sibling to school. She is the last born in her home and her par-ents are very proud of her suc-cess in the emergency service. During our interview with her, the fi re alarm is sounded and in one minute she is kitted out and ready to go.

It is a tough world out there for women in the property industry, but this could be

the thing of the past for women landlords after the intervention of the ministry of public works in KwaZulu-Natal to empower the previously disadvantaged - women and the youth. Provin-cial MEC for public works Lydia

Johnson recently met with the landlords in the province to dis-cuss the opportunities that are out there for grabs and to engage with the women landlords on the challenges that they are facing. What transpired in the meeting is that the property industry is still in the hands of the few and that there was still a lot to do in

spreading the business and shar-ing opportunities. The depart-ment with an aim of promoting transformation in the industry has established a property char-ter. The charter basically serves as a mechanism, which seeks to address the imbalances of the past by closing the gap between fi rst and second economy. John-son said it is undisputed that well-established institutional investors, listed property enti-ties and large private owners currently dominate the prop-erty ownership.” Transformation encompasses various interven-tions and achievement of spe-cifi c objectives”.

“The benefit to the estab-lished is that they gain skilled artisans, which is currently a scarce skill across the construc-tion spectrum”. She urged all stakeholders in the sector to strive for the enhancement of skills in the fi eld. “The depart-ment has also initiated a pro-gramme called izandla ziyage-zana which is aimed at ensuring clearance of vacant land. “In this

programme the labour absorbing methods are used to ensure that short term job opportunities are created.”

Nokuthula Shabangu co-owns a block of flats in Kwa-Mashu and in Mandeni. She is one of the women up and com-ing landlords that attended the meeting. She and other women landlords present were there for an opportunity to engage with Johnson about the problems that prevents them from achiev-ing their dreams in the construc-tion industry. Shabangu and most women complained that making it in this industry is very tough and that the best way is to have a male counterpart on the forefront. “Through all the prob-lems that we have been through in this business, I would not have made it if it was not for the fact that there is a male involved,” said Shabangu. She said getting funding is a huge challenge and getting a loan from a bank is very diffi cult for women starting out in this business. “When approach-ing a bank for a loan they require

proof of previous achievement and a guaranteed proof that you will be able to repay the loan,” said Shabangu.

The Charter:· The charter promotes

skills development and allows the department to engage established compa-nies to make use of the NYS learners on their projects including private develop-ments to advance their skills and ultimately form co-oper-atives.

· Promotes preferential procurement with a view to closing the gap between the fi rst and second econ-omy and

· Ensures that the gender composition of ownership is given attention as women are prioritized

· Promotes and encourages transformation in the indus-try

· Promotes employment opportunities for unem-ployed youth

�n

tKZN LegislatureKZN Legislature

Speaker for KZN LegislatureMr Willies Mchunu

Th is month, our province and indeed our country commemorate the struggles and sacrifi ces of South African

Women against the evils of colonialism, apartheid and gender oppression.

We use this month to refl ect on how far we have gone in upholding the values of a democratic society, free from

the injustices of inequality, sexism and subjugation of women in our society. As KwaZulu-Natal Legislature it

is with pride and contentment that I report that we have made signifi cant strides towards gender equality. We

have set up mechanisms aimed at ensuring that issues aff ecting women are at the mainstream of our agenda.

When I became Speaker of the Legislature in 2004, I, together with the leadership of our institution introduced

the concept of Women’s Parliament. We did this because we wanted to give women a platform where they could

freely determine the cause of gender equality and women empowerment without being dictated to by male

voices. Th e initiative has been an overwhelming success and is now a common feature of our annual calendar

of activities.

We have also gone further by bringing more and more women into leadership positions at our institution. We

are fully conscious of the fact that we cannot advocate gender equality when our house is not in order. Under

the administrative leadership of the Secretary of the Legislature, Ms Nerusha Naidoo, we are piloting gender

mainstreaming as another tool of sensitizing Members and Staff on the principle of gender equality.

As we celebrate women’s month, we salute our unsung heroines for their determination of achieving equality.

We will continue to explore ways of making our institution more sensitive to gender equality. We also call upon

the people that we represent, especially men out there to also respect our heroines and desist from women abuse,

rape and violence against women and children

Mr Willies Mchunu

Speaker of KwaZulu-Natal Legislature

tKZN LegislatureKZN Legislature

�t

Secretary for KZN LegislatureMs Nerusha Naidoo

Th e theme of this year’s Women’s Parliament is “Th e Legislature empowering women

of KwaZulu-Natal for poverty eradication”. Our institution introduced the concept

of a Women’s Parliament to help deepen the debate about issues that are pertinent to

women empowerment and gender equality in KwaZulu-Natal.

As the KZN Legislature we have made every eff ort to put issues of women empower-

ment at the top of our agenda of social change. Our eff orts, programmes and inter-

ventions have been guided by the strong conviction that if you empower women you

empower the nation.

As we celebrate Women’s Month, we dip our banners in honour of our women. We have

it in our power to improve the lives of women in our province; to improve the lot of

women in the workplace, and we will not falter in our pursuit to achieve full women

empowerment.

However, in spite of all these interventions, years of subjugation of women by colonial-

ism, apartheid and deep-seated gender-stereotypes have elongated gender inequality,

thus forestalling us from achieving our goal of equity. It is on these grounds that we

continue to explore innovative ways of achieving gender equity.

Since the launch of the Women’s Parliament in 2004 issues such as poverty eradication,

economic empowerment with a particular emphasis on access to funding, gender equity

in the workplace, and rural development continue to dominate our agenda of social

change.

We therefore urge women together with all community stakeholders to participate in

this process of social change and to use the various platforms of social dialogue, such

as the Women’s Parliament, to participate in initiatives and programmes that seek to

bring about a better life for all women in South Africa.

- 12 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Th e K w a Z u l u - N a t a l Department of Health has launched a cam-

paign to promote the sexual and reproductive rights of women during the month of August.

The campaign, which is themed “Respect women’s rights to be responsible”, will provide information to couples and indi-viduals (specifi cally women) on family planning and the right to attain the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health.

It will also highlight the right to make decisions concerning reproductive choices, free of dis-crimination, coercion and vio-lence, as expressed in the human rights framework of the Consti-tution.

According to the department they hope that the information and services they provide to the communities will ensure that these rights are respected and recognised at all times.

The campaign will be imple-mented in four districts of the province namely, eThekwini, Uthungulu, Umgungundlovu and Amajuba.

According to the department men will also be educated about sexual and reproductive health, as it takes a partnership to have a family.

“Women have a right to health, but protecting that right often depends on a partner’s sup-port,” the department said.

Women will also be educated about the choice of termination of pregnancy, which is a health imperative.

The International community has recognised that unsafe abor-tion is a major threat to women’s health.

“By liberalising restrictive abortion laws and investing in abortion safety, we can save the lives of tens of thousands of women every year,” the depart-ment said.

Communities will also be edu-cated on protecting and respect-ing women’s sexual and repro-ductive health.

According to the department, reproductive health is determined not only by the quality and avail-ability of health care, but also by socio-economic development levels, lifestyles and women’s position in society.

“These core values, respect, rights and responsibility, under-pin a vision of a society where women are valued and sexual-ity is viewed as a normal and healthy part of being human, of being young, of being alive,” the department said.

Social change is always diffi -cult, particularly when the basic relations between men and women in families and society are involved.

The past decade has seen greater attention and progress towards the empowerment of women.

There has also been a growing recognition of how the rules gov-erning men and women’s oppor-tunities, social endowments and behaviours affect the prospect for accelerated development and justice.

KZN PROMOTES SEXUAL,

REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS OF WOMEN

The provincial Depart-ment of Public Works is embarking on a project

to clear all government prop-erties in KwaZulu-Natal, bring-ing numerous job opportunities to the unemployed, particularly women in the province.

The Izandla Ziyagezana Project, meaning “hands help each other”, is aimed at address-ing the challenge of poverty in the province.

MEC for Public Works Lydia Johnson said: “One of the core businesses of our department is the management of government properties which includes vacant land.

“Given the fact that some of this land is within our commu-nities, we felt that it was crucial to ensure that it does not pollute areas or become overgrown,” said Ms Johnson.

She further said they had resolved to “hit two birds with one stone” and ensure the vacant land is cleared by local residents thereby creating jobs.

“The government is trying by all means to use labour absorb-ing methods in its projects, with the purpose of creating as many jobs as possible for the people.

“We hope that this project will grow and be sustainable. The communities cooperation is

therefore critical in this regard,” said MEC Johnson.

One of the beneficiaries, Zesuliwe Mbeje from Hammars-dale, said she has been strug-gling to fi nd employment after the death of her husband in 2005.

She said she was more opti-mistic that her life would change for the better with the project.

“I will be able to save some of the money, so that I can buy the tombstone for my husband,” said Ms Mbeje.

The department appealed to the communities in the prov-ince to work with them and pro-tect government properties. “It

is our responsibility to ensure that our buildings are not turned into white elephants,” said MEC Johnson.

Due to the increased number of people participating in pro-gramme their campaign to encourage community participa-tion and involvement was becom-ing a reality.

The department also said for development initiatives to make an impact in the lives of the com-munities both rural and urban municipalities, it must be com-munities themselves who play a leading role in their develop-ment.

KZN “CLEAR-UP” PROJECT TO CREATE JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Beijing - South Afri-can swimmer Natalie du Toit, whose left leg

was amputated below the knee in 2001, is to compete against - and hopefully beat - able-bodied swimmers at the highest level.

She will become the first amputee to compete in the Olympic Games this year when the 2008 Beijing Olympics com-mences.

Ms du Toit’s achievements at international events for athletes with disability are outstanding enough.

She won five gold medals and a silver at the 2004 Athens Paralympics, and followed that up with three gold medals at the 2005 Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.

At the 2006 International Par-alympic Committee World Swim-ming Championships in Durban, Ms du Toit won six gold med-als, including an incredible third

place overall in the fi ve-kilometre open water event.

The swimmer is the owner of numerous disability world records, including the record for the 50m, 100m and 400m free-style, 100m butterfl y and 200m individual medley.

Her greatest achievement, however, has been bridging the gap between able-bodied and disabled athletes.

At the 2003 All-Africa Games,

Before she lost her leg in an accident, Ms du Toit narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney.

As an amputee, she failed to qualify for the Athens Olympics in 2004, but she never gave up on the dream she had carried with her since she was a child.

In May 2008 she booked her place in the women’s 10 kilome-tre marathon swim at the Beijing Olympics by fi nishing fourth in

the 10-kilometre race at the World Open Water Swimming Champi-onships in Seville, Spain.

But Du Toit reckons there is no magic recipe for success; it is all down to hard work and deter-mination.

In Manchester in 2002, Ms du Toit told journalists that that by swimming in both disability and open races, she felt she was forming a bond.

“If this can tie a bond, if it can help disabled people to believe in themselves, if it can bring them to a better understanding with able-bodied people, then that’s great, if it helps.”

When Ms du Toit had her left leg amputated below the knee following a scooter accident in early 2001, she ended up encour-aging tearful family members while recovering in hospital - and within a few months of leaving hospital was back in the swim-ming pool.

NATALIE DU TOIT: ABILITY OF MIND

- 13 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

WOMEN IN ALL SECTORS ARE VULNERABLE

TO THE AIDS PANDEMIC

Marianne Williamson

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.

We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented & fabulous?’

Actually, who are you not to be?

Your playing small doesn’t serve the world.

There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other peo-ple won’t feel insecure around you.

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our own fears, our presence automat-

ically liberates others.”.Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel

Peace Prize Laureate, leader of Burma’s democracy movement.

The education and empower-ment of women throughout the world cannot fail to result in a more caring, tolerant, just and peaceful life for all.

Mother Teresa, social workerWe think sometimes that pov-

erty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest pov-erty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.

Marian Wright Edelman We must not, in trying to think

about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily

difference we can make which, over time, add up to big differ-ences that we often cannot fore-see.

Helen Keller Character cannot be developed

in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffer-ing can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.

As we celebrate yet another month dedicated to women, we pay tribute to our mothers and daugthers in this beautiful province. MediaCom SA, the publishers, dedicate this editorial supplement to women leaders everywhere in this land of rich diversity and talent. Here are some insightful words from some of our greatest women...

WORDS OF INSPIRATION

Fiona Scorgie coordina-tor of the Durban-based Gender Aids Programme

(GAP) says a large cluster of women including young girls still at school continue to bear the brunt of the HIV/Aids virus. She says the time has come for women’s movements to unite to assist this marginalized sector.

She points out that it is impor-tant to note that regardless of their HIV status women have similar demands regarding the realization of health, well-being and rights and can stand in soli-darity to fi ght for our rights, but HIV infection brings on another dimension to the challenge.

“Women living with HIV and AIDS face different realities and specifi c and unique challenges that needs to be clearly stated and advocated for. Economi-cally disadvantaged women, girls at school, women in rural areas, those living in informal settle-ments and refugee women are among the marginalized cluster of women who remain the most vulnerable to the pandemic.”

She said it was important for women to first support each other. “There is so much that divides us women. In addition we have a scattered women’s move-ment in this country and organ-izations geared for women work in isolation. We need to acknowl-edge our each other and stand together.”

She says among the many challenges, the failure by stake-holders to appropriately deal

with gender-based violence and properly address the stigmas associated with the pandemic are among the many reasons why there is a failure to curb the increase in the spread of the dis-ease.

“We do not have an ena-bling environment for women to speak out. When get raped and the widely held belief still exists out there that she asked for it - based on what she was wearing be it a kanga or a short mini skirt. This preponderance of myths around gender vio-lence makes women more vul-nerable to attacks. It also makes it diffi cult for women to speak out about their HIV status when they have been raped. She said one of the biggest challenges is that women are also being denied their rights to bear children when HIV positive.”

She said while local govern-ment appeared to be commit-ted to fi ghting the pandemic; the structures of government don’t make it possible. “Service deliv-ery challenges overtake the programme to educate and empower communities. In rural areas traditional structures are not open to interventions of com-munity based organ-izations. They see organizations such as ours as a threat. They see the empow-erment of women as a threat.”

She said a greater

c o m m i t m e n t from all leaders

across all sectors, government, religious

and business to be out-spoken and clear in their

messages related to all aspects affecting women

and the HIV/Aids Virus. “We

need role models and leaders who send out clear messages. The media must also play its role in reporting pertinent issues in a balanced manner to educate the public.”

She said men and boys had to also be part of the bigger pro-gram. “We need men to be part of the solution. A lot of work has to be done on how the behav-iour of men is really furling the disease. A refusal by men to wear condoms and continue to have multiple partners is a major

contribution to the spread of the pandemic”.

She said recently GAF intro-duced a Positive Women’s Cau-cus bringing together a diverse range of women living with HIV and AIDS, to know, understand, assert and demand their health, sexual and reproductive rights and are able to articulate these

to other women living with HIV and AIDS and to policy mak-

ers.

The Positive Wom-

en’s Caucus will:

• Build a cadre of women liv-

ing with HIV and AIDS

leaders in fi ve Prov-inces • Ensure the voices of women living with H I V a r e

heard in our advocacy work and organisations

• Ensure women living with HIV and AIDS know and claim our rights

• Demand the promotion of positive women's auton-omy, dignity and equality

• Lobby and advocate for an HIV/AIDS treatment agenda that addresses the realities of women living with HIV and AIDS

• Lobby for investment in better informed health care workers that can respond to the special needs of women living with HIV and AIDS in an informed and respectful way

• Demand access to female condoms, women friendly health care services, espe-cially for contraceptives, STI treatment

• Ensure the inclusion of women living with HIV on the microbicides research and development agenda in ways that respect and advance the rights of women participating in these clinical trials

The forum brings together women from a cross range of backgrounds and sectors so they can go back and implement the strategies in their communities.

- 14 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

WOMENSUPERVISING MEN

Women genera l ly tend to emphasize the value of equal-

ity when they communicate with co-workers and those they super-vise.

The value of the relationship is generally more important than who is in charge of the other per-son. Women tend to emphasize this relationship style of equal-ity and stability whether they are talking to men or women. Men, on the other hand, tend to emphasize the “pecking order” in a relationship. Men want to know if the relationship is equal (friend-ship), conflicting (wrestler), or superior/subordinated (coach).

In addition to wanting to know the “pecking order” of the rela-tionship, men want to determine the “pecking order” fi rst before any effective problem solving work is started. When a man supervises another man he nat-urally knows this “pecking order” determination must take place

before real problem solving com-munication can take place. How-ever, women generally are not taught this important communi-cation skill.

When a man has a female supervisor who directs his work, makes decisions that affect his income, and provides discipline; problems can occur if she is not aware of what’s important to communicate. If a female super-visor approaches a male subordi-nate emphasizing the importance of equality of the relationship, she is likely to create a “pecking order” of equality or friendship with the man she supervises. It’s nice to have a friendship with a man you supervise, but a woman losses valuable supervisory power when she takes this posi-tion. She may fi nd that the men she supervises do not listen to her, listen to another male super-visor instead, or even end up giv-ing her orders. After enough frus-tration has built up within the

female supervisor, she may try to regain her power by establish-ing her superior one-up position. The men react to his change neg-atively by labelling her “dragon lady,” “witch,” “bossy,” or even “mom.”

The other mistake that a female supervisor can communi-cate with the men she supervises is to not establish the “peck-ing order” of the relationship. Remember, that men want the “pecking order” establish. So, if the supervisor does not take the lead the man will do it for her. The end result is that a confl ict-ing or wresting relationship will develop. This leads to a need-less power struggle where the majority of time is spent in con-fl ict over who is in charge versus being productive.

Women supervisors who communicate a “pecking order” of supervisor/subordinated or coaching style of communica-tion tend to be the most effec-

tive supervisors when it comes to supervising men. Women who establish a coaching style of communication derive their power from their position within the company and the amount of support the company can provide them. The woman may also use her age, experience, or educa-tional background as additional tools to in establishing a coach-ing style of supervising. Many women may believe that by tak-ing this style of communication she will only create a confl icting relationship with the man she supervises. Not so, because it is only when the “pecking order” is left undetermined that the man she supervises will wrestle her for power.

Women supervisors who take the “coaching style” to determine the “pecking order” tend to:

* Find their power in criticis-ing the man’s work and not the man

* Assumes the role as the expert, with more knowl-edge than the people they supervise.

* Use a higher authority, within the company to back their power and position. This might be upper man-agement, HR department, or even the company poli-cies.

* Develop a team of super-visors who support each other.

* Speak assertively and not aggressively or harshly.

* Dress for success by wear-ing appropriate business attire.\

* Accepts negative feed-back and communication from the workers that they coach. In fact, a good coach is a good listener who uses the input to better be able to direct and leader the team.

Employer-Employee.com

Women’s Day message from the MEC for Women’s Day message from the MEC for Community Safety and Liaison: Mr Bheki CeleCommunity Safety and Liaison: Mr Bheki Cele

To all the women of South Africa, Happy Women’ s day.

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Community Safety & Liaison

Women should not only wait until it is another Women’s Day of the following year until they celebrate their womanhood and all the achievements they have made as women. Women should be celebrating their womanhood everyday of their lives because they are themselves a celebration.

As a nation today we really need to keep on honouring women’s day as it is a day that brought so much change in our Country. We cannot afford as a nation to have a situation where young women and young boys are liquor and substance slaves, are not educated and are criminals. When they look back, the women of ’56 need not feel ashamed of the people

who came after them because of the unacceptable behaviours and ways of living they have chosen for themselves. They should rather feel proud that today’s generation took after them and are looking forward to the better South Africa that is full of opportunities where women are seen as a great creation God ever Created, a group that contributes to the economy of our Country, are peace keepers and crime fighters, are seen as important members of their families not victims of rape and torture by their own children and grand-children.

Women need to continue from where the women of ’56 left off and liberate themselves financially, be self sustainable and not to depend on the state grants and welfare system for survival. Women

of Africa won’t be beaten. This is the slogan that women should always sing to themselves and to one another. It will give them hope and courage to fight for a better life for themselves and for their children.

It is therefore up to men to also love and respect the women and see them as our equals that God created for us because he had realized that we need them as equals. Men do not have a right to see women as punching bags, to see women as sex objects. If a woman says no to sex men have to understand that she is saying a big and bold NO. Men have to start seeing women as people with integrity, who are talented in various ways, who are capable of doing things that were once thought to be men’s only things.

It is for reasons stated above that the Department felt it owes it to the women to make sure that wherever and whenever women are meeting to discuss issues that are of concern to them that we bring men on board as well. We have come to realize that unless men are on board we can never win the battle against domestic violence including the abuse of women and children.

Since August 2007 the department has invited men during the women’s month to give them a platform to share their anger, joys and experiences as men. This year is no exception with celebrations planned for the 28th August in partnership with the Umsunduzi municipality. We are saying “Injobo enhle ithungelwa ebandla” where matters affecting us as a people all are discussed openly where everyone’s ideas count.

MEC for Transport, Community Safety & Liaison: Mr Bheki Cele

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Inkosi Thokozile Ndlovu is a leader who likes being among her people. She lives

the same way they do. A simple life, eating off the earth by plant-ing fresh fruit and vegetable. She lives in a modest rural house and wears the same clothes as those around her. “I am no different to my people in the Ndlovu clan. I believe in working hard. It makes me stronger.” At age 50, Ndlovu has the characteristics of some-one half her age. A smile that makes anyone feel welcome and a youthful face that hides her experience. But the wisdom is noticeable. She is highly intellec-tual yet extremely humble. She is one of a handful of traditional leaders in this province and she says her motto is “to unite her clan, lead with dignity and put culture fi rst”.

Her rise to the Inkosi throne was not easy. In 1991 her hus-band Chief Jerome Dingizwe Ndlovu was slain by unknown attackers. His death led to fur-ther feuds over who should take over his position. But because the couple had a young son who is today still at school - the Ndlovu family eventually decided that has the mother it was her “duty to hold the posi-tion for her young son.”

‘In the beginning it was hard. People doubted my leadership skills because I was a woman. I had to prove myself to my fel-low leaders and the community. At times I felt humiliated and doubted myself because there were those among me who did not want to be instructed by a woman. But then I decided that to succeed I had to be honest to myself and those around me.” She said she had trouble fill-ing the “big shoes left by her late husband”. She began her task by learning everything she could about her people and their needs. “I began by setting goals for myself and those around

me. It paid off because I proved those who did not believe in me wrong”

Today she is accepted by both men and women. I also have the respect of other traditional lead-ers. I think it is because my cul-ture comes before everything else I do. I believe that no mat-ter where we come from our cul-tural beliefs must be held dear.” She said after the death of her

husband she also has to quickly learnt he skills of ploughing. “I would not dare ask the com-munity to do chores for me so I learnt very quickly how to plough, plant and tend to my gardens.”

Despite being a traditional leader Ndlovu still says her role does not make her any different to other women. “I do not believe I need to be regarded as being someone exceptional. I partic-ipate in all community events, I mingle with other women because I am a woman. In the beginning some in the com-munity reacted with shock as if I should not be there and not attend some of the events that are considered less important.” Overtime people have come to understand her simple and hum-ble ways. “Now they understand me and what I am about”.

Apart from attending events and contributing to the upliftment of the people in her authority, one of major roles is to resolve disputes. She says this aspect of her work is not easy. “There are many things to consider when I sit in the traditional court to oversee disputes be it domes-tic or other. It is not easy deal-ing with people under these cir-cumstances. I have to strive for

fairness. I have to ensure that I look at all sides of the issue. The people I serve must come fi rst in whatever I do.”

She says one of the greatest challenges she faces in her posi-tion is that people do not have a proper understanding of the role of traditional structures. ‘There is always the threat of people want-ing to contest traditional court decisions in a court of law. Some have legitimate reasons, others want to do it to make a point.” She says most of the things she has had to learn has been self thought. “”There are no schools to train traditional leaders so we have to educate ourselves. We have to learn about local govern-ment and how it works. My task is made a lot easier by the exist-ence of the traditional leader-ship structure that is recognised within our local government sys-tem.”

She however remains optimis-tic and says life is full of promise and one has to look beyond the diffi culties to succeed. Most of all being a woman is something she is proud of. “If given the chance women can do so much for other women and others in the com-munity. I want to develop those around me and help improve

lives.” Ndlovu’s family and friends

hold her in high regard. Those in the community acknowledge that her greatest leadership quality is her quest for unity and peace. She also believes in participa-tion and communication. She agrees that her role is to lead but says this does not mean making all the decisions. “As a leader I have to consult my people. To ignore their input means treat-ing them with disrespect.” She works with government agencies and departments to fi ght poverty and develop the skills of espe-cially women in the community. She is busy with a latest project with the help of the department of agriculture to develop the skills of women in the community.

“Women must be given opportunities to develop their skills so that they can raise their children and hold their families together. We are equal and must equally as a community face the diffi culties. My major task is to bring peace, stability and unity among all my people”. When you ask the people of the Ndlovu clan what makes their leader spe-cial they add that it is her smile, warmth and humility.

Inkosi Thokozile Ndlovu of Ufafa in Ixopo is a small woman with a big hard and an even bigger task.

CHIEF CHIEF AMONG HER PEOPLE!AMONG HER PEOPLE!

Nobanzi NgqangasheManager: Human Resource Management

I salute the women who have fought in the struggle and sacrificed everything they had to ensure that the ordinary women like me are recognised today with equal rights. The struggle of women has evolved over time and still continues. The plight of the women today is that of fair treatment, both in and out or formal employment, being given opportunities both in business and areas that are otherwise male dominated. It is also important for women who have given these opportunities to be strong, resilient and empower other women as they rise. ‘A luta continua.’

Bongekile KhozaManager: Supply Chain Management

Victories often occur after you have thought there is no way to succeed. In the past, construction was considered a men’s job but the Department of Housing has turned the impossible possible by allowing women contractors to have a meaningful contribution in the development of sustainable human settlements. Let us not mourn about the imbalances of past but grab the opportunity and make our mark as women of South Africa

Zandile MyeniManager: Financial Administration

It is said God created women to be strong for they don’t shy away from their many and varied responsibilities. These pillars of society and the household accept and carry out their duties with inherent pride. It is this pride that pushes them to greater heights and can ensure that every family has a decent place that is not only a house but a home.

Odette AndersonManager: Legal Services

My message to the women of KwaZulu-Natal is to set your mind on achieving your goals. You become what you think of the most. It is now the time for us to believe in the power that is within us and to focus on achieving the goals that our mothers, sister, aunts and grandmothers fought so hard for. Now is the time, our time. If you believe it you will achieve it.

Martie MilneManager: Product Development

Women be bold! Let our passion unfold... Let it nurture the foundation to heal our rainbow nation! Seize the day - Carpe diem! But wisely use our freedom. Take courage to lead, to sow the seeds we need. To grow and stand tall. Build a better life for all.

Simmi NaikerManager: Subsidy Administration

“ It is a tribute to our democracy that we are seeing so many strong and independent women as leaders in business and Government in our country today. It is therefore a duty for those women to, in turn, help empower and assist other women to realise their full potential - to pass it on! Women looking to explore careers must consider paths that few women have entered thus far, such as the construction industry, thus becoming home-builders in addition to being home-makers”.

WOMEN IN HOUSING MANAGEMENTWOMEN IN HOUSING MANAGEMENT

“Ensuring job creation for women through housing delivery”

Zandile NyanduHead of Department

The role of women in the liberation and development of this country should not be forgotten. The sacrifices that were made in 1956 provide the impetus that allow us to talk about the role of women in service excellence today. It is therefore appropriate that during this month we unleash women’s potential through excellent service delivery and development facilitation. As we celebrate Women’s Month, we must ask ourselves serious questions about how to enhance the roles of women in spheres of government. We must look into all managerial opportunities in the public sector in general in which the energies and the exuberance of women is greatly required. We need to find ways of retaining and enhancing the women’s managerial skills that are already harnessed while at the same time ensuring that we attract the young people of the future into public service. We have enormous challenges in the area of service delivery. We are therefore faced with mammoth challenges that are not dissimilar to the challenges faced by the women in 1956, and we need to respond aggressively in order to ensure that the majority of our people to look back at the sacrifices of 1956 and agree that the benefits in the advancement of the quality of life are commensurate too the losses suffered.

THE WOMEN OF KZN HOUSING SALUTE THE WOMEN OF SATHE WOMEN OF KZN HOUSING SALUTE THE WOMEN OF SA

Capacity building workshops

Aim:• Entrenching women participation in housing delivery through skills development• Promote accessibility and tendering• Facilitate access to finance• Facilitate a grading programme for women enterprizes through CIDB and NHBRC for the progression of women from emerging to fully fledged developers.

EXPANDED PUBLIC WORKS INITIATIVE

The departments EPWP projects include the promotion and development of the women, and employment opportunities have been created for more than 300 women in the supply of goods and services;

• currently using provincial suppliers database• Process to accredit own service providers started• Work to the value of R8.3 million awarded to women service providers from June 2006 to June 2007• Women to be allocated 40 % of the total expenditure• Database for women and youth contractors has been developed.

Benefi ciary approvals per gender : 1994 to June 2007

Subsidy instrument Male Female Total

Consolidation Subsidy 49% 51.4% 23.665

Individual Subsidy 49% 51% 16 923

Institutional Subsidy 41% 59.3% 19 476

Rural Subsidy Informal Land Rights 31% 69% 57 175

Project linked Subsidy 43% 57.1% 215 741

KZN HousinguMnyango:wezeZindluISIFUNDAZWE SAKWAZULU-NATAL

Women’s Month Activities

The Department of Housing will partner with Isolezwe in celebration of the Women’s Month to be held at ICC on 9 August 2008-the target is 350 women in the field of construction. The event will also target members of Intandokazi Women’s Club.

Three capacity enhancement workshops will be held in three regions with an aim of mobilising the available resources that will benefit women entrepreneurs in the field of housing construction. This will be done in partnership with NHBRC, Umsobomvu and CIDB.

UMnyango WezoHulumeni baseKhaya neziNdaba zoMdaba • Departement van Plaaslike Regering en Tradisionele Sake

PEOPLE CENTRED SUSTAINABLE LOCAL GOVERNANCE WHICH FOCUSES ON EFFECTIVE SERVICE DELIVERY RESPONSIVE TO THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITIES

The empowerment of women is a crucial prerequisite for poverty alleviation and

job creation, says Gabi Gumbi-Masilela, the administrative head of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Local Government and Traditional Aff airs. An optimist by nature Gumbi-Masilela believes in strong leadership, a clear vision, and a focus on valuable outcomes. “Th ese are my benchmarks for success.”She admits that local government faces many challenges, but says despite this “there is no room for compromise”. “I look for quality and dedication in everything I do and I expect the same from my team. I expect commitment, honesty and the highest ethical standards. At the same time I believe we need to recognise the eff orts of our staff in order to boost morale. We are at present implementing a recognition system within the Department that will highlight the eff orts of staff who go beyond the call of duty,” says Gumbi-Masilela.“Our Department has grown in strength and stature. It is at the coal face of service delivery. We are an institution that is closest to the people. As a Department we work directly with local government institutions at municipal and district level to make certain that the presence of local government is felt at the heart of the community.” Gumbi-Masilela adds that the Department has made a signifi cant impact in improving the lives of the people in the Province. Th is has been done through creative programmes, practical community initiatives and the unwavering eff ort on the Department’s leaders to reassess its systems and improve on existing

targets and deliverables. Linked to this has been a plan to improve on its support for municipalities. “We are at the point where we are fully aware of the challenges faced by municipalities. We are currently developing strategic interventions aimed at addressing various challenges in municipalities,” she adds.Recently a ground breaking symposium on Good Governance was held to restore credibility and improve on service delivery. Th e event also equipped the Department with some clear ideas on how to move forward.One of the key strategies in the Department has been the monitoring of the role and participation of women traditional leaders in local government. Gumbi-Masilela says great strides have been made to provide opportunities for women to gain access and entry into all structures. Th is was made possible through national and provincial legislation that clearly set defi nitive targets regarding the participation of women in traditional structures. “If you check the executive committees of most local houses of traditional leader’s women are fairly represented,” she adds.Th e Department also empowers women through targeted projects, such as community participation and community development initiatives. Th rough community participation, women are encouraged to meaningfully participate in their ward committees. One of the pre-requisites is that a seat is reserved for a woman in each ward. Th e committees encourage women to participate meaningfully in the aff airs of their areas. “Th is is done through ensuring that a seat is reserved for women in each committee at a ward level.

Th is is a structure recognised by law and in which issues of concern among women in that particular ward are communicated in a structured manner to the relevant stakeholders via their respective municipalities”, says Manager, Community Participation, Nomthi Zwane.Another success by the Department to develop women has been the introduction of the Community Development Worker programme (CDW). According to Th embisile Mavundla, provincial co-ordinator for CDW programme, the programme is key to the development of the entrepreneurial skills of women. “Th ere are 230 women recruited for the CDW programme. Th ese women have been empowered with information and skills on local economic development and how to register and manage co-operatives.” Th e programme is designed to provide women with practical entrepreneurial skills so that they can benefi t their communities, she adds.Th e Local Economic Development (LED) programme is intended to address the economic inequality and the eff ects of persistent poverty in communities. “More than 60% of the rural population is dominated by unemployed women. Th is programme targets women and ensures that eight out of 10 projects are led by women,” according to Manager, Rural Development, Nozipho Dlomo.In 2007 the Department hosted Ondlunkulu - Women in Traditional Governance Conference. “Th e Department is engaging in a co-operative support programme for Ondlunkulu,” says Dlomo.Focusing on her Department, Gumbi-Masilela points out that she is blessed with committed personnel who are passionate about what they do. Yet in every workplace there are some with skills and others who need support to develop their skills. “Our sector and work environment is highly regulated and very technical and this is a challenge for some people in the Department. We are putting in place capacity building processes for our staff to provide adequate skills and high capacity to deliver.”Asked about the obstacles she faced as a woman leader, she openly admits that the challenges she faces are generic and not that unique to her being a woman. “Th e challenges I face cannot necessarily be attributed to me being female. Th ese are challenges of leading and directing people. It usually requires ongoing strategies, people management skills and proper team support. Th ese are challenges generic to anyone in a leadership position – man or woman.”She however admits that there is an unwritten expectation in being a female leader - the responsibility to champion

the cause of women in the work place! She adds that this is understandable considering the fact that women have been for so long denied their due place in leading positions and as a result they have been fi ghting for their emancipation.“We have come a long a way and we need to keep the focus and consolidate the gains to empower all women who look up to us,” she says.To improve on the status of women within the Department of Local Government and Traditional Aff airs, senior woman managers recently took time to evaluate the role played in the Department. Th ey also focussed critically on the empowerment of women in various positions within municipalities and traditional aff airs structures. Th e women managers within the Department agree that signifi cant inroads have been made as far as women empowerment goes, as a number of women now hold diff erent senior positions in municipalities. However their main concern is that out of 61 municipalities only three of them have women municipal managers. Manager, Municipal Performance, Aah Sekhesa, says the key to success is having the tools to survive. “It is imperative to have survival skills in order to cope with the work environment. In local government the skills needed are so diverse and thus giving room for each and every one to showcase ones abilities regardless of gender,” she adds.All the managers unanimously agreed that the road to success in their respective portfolios depended basically on knowledge and competency, coupled with an unfl inching commitment and hard work. Personal commitment and ongoing development was also another pre-requisite to their achievements.“Don’t underestimate yourself because you are already judged by the virtue of being female. Be confi dent and maintain a high self esteem though learning new skills and meeting challenges with courage and determination,” said General Manager, Municipal Finance, Joey Krishnan.“Th e municipal fi nance arena is dominated by males with less than eight percent of women being represented in management. Hence the Department is in the process of implementing a municipal fi nance learnership programme which will promote gender equity,” she added.Th e Department has also taken initiative to commemorate the women’s day on the 14 August. Staff members will come together to celebrate their successes and achievements. Th e Department has made pledge to focus on the wellness and health issues of all female employees 24/7 and 365 days a year.

Women Empowerment = Service DeliveryWomen Empowerment = Service Delivery

Mr M Mabuyakhulu, MEC for Local Government, Housing and Traditional Aff airs with the Head of Department of Local Government and

Traditional Aff airs, Ms C.G. Gumbi-Masilela and some of her women Managers in the Department

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Lindiwe Ngcobo is a woman of simple tastes coupled with a bound-

less energy and empathy to help a sister in need. She is the head of the KZN Chapter of the South African Women Entrepreneur’s Network (SAWEN). The organ-isation represents and supports entrepreneurs within the prov-inces small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) sector. It is a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Trade and Industry to help start, grow and sustain their own enterprises.

When you meet Ngcobo for the fi rst time it is amazing to see that behind the pin stripped suit of a powerful business leader is someone with such dedication and compassion to empower others. And it shows because in just 12 months the membership of SAWEN has doubled from 200 to 400 members.

“I believe that women have the potential to help other women. Clearly a lot needs to be done in this respect because the sharing of skills is becoming the excep-tion rather than the norm.”

She adds that SAWEN under-stands the sector of the economy that remains largely out of sight of when one discusses the econ-omy. “Our members meet every three months. There are work-shops have meetings every one of them to assist our members and provide them with the skills they need in their respective busi-ness enterprises.”

She is a streetwise business graduate. “I come from a back-ground where nothing was easy. I learnt very quickly that as a woman you have take the little opportunity you have and make it work for you. Ongoing training

and learning new skills is what made me succeed.”

She is very proud of SAWEN’s role because it provides an excel-lent networking platform for women starting out in business. “There are many avenues for women in our province and coun-try but our organisation is small enough to cater for the specifi c needs of those behind the cor-porate curtain. We provide basic and advanced business training for our members.”

She says a popular forum for their members if the breakfast forums. “We choose noteworthy leaders in business to come and share with us their skills. This is not a talk shop but a powerful opportunity for our members to get fi rst hand important and life tips and ideas to help them grow their businesses.”

The organisation’s success is depends large on the support it gets from the provincial govern-ment, both the department of the premier and that of the depart-ment of fi nance and economic affairs. The department of Trade and Industry nationally also plays its role.

“I see the advances women make but there are many obsta-cles that still keep us away from the corporate boardrooms. The environment in which business operates is dominated by a cul-ture that makes it difficult for women to enjoy their fair share. It requires women to work much harder than their male counter-parts and break through brick walls and push open many doors before they can really enjoy the investment and development opportunities available in the province.”

She says while the provin-

cial government is committed to improving the lives of women, obstacle in the path of such progress us being hindered because the implementa-tion is in the hands of inexperienced offi cials within gov-ernment depart-ments. “Such indi-viduals hinder the progress of women especially when it comes to tenders that are there for women. There is a sense that oppor-tunities for women are based on patri-otism rather than equal opportu-nity.”

She said private sector also needs to play a bigger role in develop-ing and support-ing organisation that are commit-ted to empowering women run and owned entities. “Women must be given their space now. The private sector can play its part to make sure this happens. Financial and other private sector insti-tutions can create an enabling envi-ronment to help women run enti-ties succeed.” For more information call: 033-3450863.

“SAWEN” A “SAWEN” A GROWING WOMEN BASED GROWING WOMEN BASED

HELP CENTREHELP CENTRE

Well respected Kwa-zulu-Natal journalist Mary Papayya has

been overwhelmingly re-elected for her third term as secretary-General of the SA National Edi-tor’s Forum SANEF.This makes Papayya the longest serving SG in Sanef to date. She has served on the SANEF Council since its inception in 1996.

Papayya is a former Natal Technikon now Durban Uni-versity of Technology graduate and is the Bureau Chief of the Sowetan in KwaZulu-Natal. She

also served as founding Editor and News Manager at East Coast Radio having launched the news product Newswatch. She served as News Editor and Executive producer at the SABC and has worked in both mainstream print and radio for the over 20 years including that of being Durban Bureau Chief of the Witness in the early 90s.

Papayya lives in KZN and is a well respected media leader known for her dedication and commitment for protecting the rights of the news media and

developing working journalists. Her role on Sanef according to colleague Judy Sandison who was also elected on the Sanef council and is from Kwazulu-Natal is that of a “consummate professional who inspires and leads Sanef with distinction”. Papayya served as Sanef regional convenor for three terms before being appointed SG. Papayya is also the senior judge of SABC News & Current Affairs Awards, Regional/National Judge - Voda-com Journalist of the Year Com-petition.

During a sabbatical from the newsroom April 2002 and March 2004 Papayya worked as a news media Trainer/consultant on the African Continent. She is a reg-istered News/Media Trainer with the Southern African Training Trust (Samtran) and board mem-ber of the Midlands publication Edendale eYethu.

“My passion is for the empow-erment and development of young and talented journalists especially those from disad-vantaged backgrounds. Sanef believes in media freedom and

transformation. I also believe in the empowerment of women in our newsrooms and have made certain that the gender agenda is key to Sanef’s plan of action. There are many challenges fac-ing our media industry both internally and externally and my hope is to work towards alleviat-ing that pressure for the promo-tion of good story telling, uncov-ering the truth and sustaining balanced news reporting in our media,” says Pappaya.

RESPECTED SENIOR JOURNALIST RE-ELECTED GENERAL SECRETARY

OF SANEF

- 20 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Queenie Hlongwa is an achiever and an entre-preneur. She is seen

as a role model and a decision-maker in her chosen fi eld and is making a tangible difference to the lives of others.

“I always knew I wanted to own my own business – even when I was nine years old I was selling scones and sweets at school”, says Queenie. Since then, she has determinedly set about achieving her goal. After matriculating in Eshowe at Zwelethini High School, Queenie was employed as an Administra-tion Clerk with the Department of Justice. After three years work-ing behind a desk, “pushing papers” she realised that this

was not for her. In the meantime she had met her husband, Nathi who is an agriculturalist and this tweaked her interest in working in the fi eld. She resigned from her job and registered as a full time Community Extension stu-dent at the Mangosutho Tech-nikon. Whilst working for the Department of Agriculture as an Agricultural Technician provid-ing advisory services in vegeta-ble and sugar cane farming and home economics, Queenie saw an advert calling for applicants to participate in the Government Land Redistribution and Agricul-tural Development Programme (LRAD).

Soon Queenie was the proud owner of ‘Kuhlekonko Farm’ (all

is good and well) - a 115 hec-tare sugar cane farm in Darnall, North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Farm life was lonely and diffi-cult to begin as Nathi remained in Nkwaleni whilst Queenie lived on the farm. That situation soon changed and now Nathi and their four-school going children are also living on the farm. Nathi’s help and support on the farm has allowed this entrepreneur to diversify her business inter-ests. In August 2007, Queenie purchased a bed manufacturing franchise, Brothers Mattress Fac-tory in Richards Bay. She laughs when she recalls how little she knew about beds but, being a risk taker, she saw the opportu-nity that this business would pro-

vide in providing much needed income during the three month off crop when sugar cane grow-ers receive no income. “Do you know how easy it is to make a bed?” she asks, “it takes just seven minutes and I am currently producing 25 beds a day. I have fi ve employees and will soon be expanding as I have big orders coming in.” Future plans for Brothers Mattress Factory include the opening of stores in shopping centres.

Whilst it is evident that Queenie is revelling in these time consuming businesses she says, “I don’t know how I would cope without Nathi. When I have to stay over in Richards Bay, Nathi looks after the farm, sees to the children’s needs and home-work.”

Nathi is not the only person who has helped contribute to Queenie’s success. Neighbour-ing cane grower, Kim Hagemann, proved to be an excellent mentor. In addition to agronomic advice, when she had no water he gave it, when she needed his help he immediately came round to the field to show her what to do. In fact, Kim was so impressed with her farming acumen and dedication for her business, he gave her a tractor and trailer. Today, they are fi rm friends and, since January 2008 , Queenie has been mentoring two of her neighbouring emerging farmers. Through the CANEGROWERS mentorship programme, she is employed to provide mentoring for four hours per day per men-tee. Prior to this formal arrang-ment, Queenie provided mentor-ing to various other farmers and is very proud to say that one of them was a widow whose hus-band had passed away. At that time the farm was run down and the widow was at risk of losing everything. With Queenie’s help, the farm is now in tiptop condi-tion. In 2006, Queenie was 2nd runner-up in the Top Producer for National Markets category of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture’s Female Farmer of the Year competition.

Whilst yields on Kuhlekonko

Farm have improved from 4 500 tons cane to 6 500 tons cane, “income from the farm is not great at the moment as I am repaying my start up loan and I do not draw a salary. Any profi t that I make on the farm I put back into the business. Input costs have increased dramati-cally since I came onto the farm whilst income from sugar cane has not increased in the same proportion.” Despite the poor economic climate facing farmers in general, Queenie still sees a future in farming in South Africa and has applied to the Depart-ment of Land Affairs for another farm which will increase the total area under cane. Many of her friends have gone out of farm-ing she says, “the bed manu-facturing business can come and go, but the land will always be there. Farming provides a sta-ble income and allows me to employ others, which is impor-tant to me.” During the harvest-ing season, the farm provides employment for approximately 20 people. Technology is an important part of the business. Computer packages are used for cane management solutions and CaneFarms, the computerised VAT and accounting service pro-vides fi nancial advice and report-ing as well as fi nancial training seminars.

Development and empower-ment are important aspects to Queenie. In addition to the joy she gets from creating employ-ment, she is also a counsellor in the Woman’s Ministry. Sat-urday mornings are devoted to counselling young women in the church on topics ranging from HIV/AIDS to drugs to marriage guidance. She says on an aver-age day more than 100 woman attend these sessions.

Queenie’s advice to other women : “Women, don’t sit and wait for help, go and fi nd some-thing for yourself. The days of women waiting for husbands are past. Don’t be afraid to take risks and it is important to network as this helps you grow and market your business.”

Gender Links (GL) in partnership with the Gender and Media

Southern Africa (GEMSA) Net-work and the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA), will be holding the third Gender and Media (GEM) Summit from 10-12 August 2008 in Johannesburg,

South Africa. The theme of the summit is: “Whose news, whose views? Critical citizens, respon-sive media”.

The summit will bring together media practitioners; trainers; gen-der activists and all those who subscribe to the GEMSA slogan “making every voice count, and

counting that it does” to share best practices in creating a more responsive media. The summit will feature the third Gender and Media awards expected to attract a record number of entries. These will include the Media Action Plan (MAP) HIV and AIDS and Gender awards for progressive

institutional practice on promot-ing diversity in the work place and media content.

New features include the Gen-der and Media Diversity Centre (GMDC) launched in March 2008 and its work in building the capac-ity of ordinary citizens to engage critically with the media through

media literacy projects across the Southern African region. Partners in the GMDC include knowledge institutions and media develop-ment NGOs from Southern Africa and around the world committed to more diverse and responsive media that promote an informed, critical citizenry.

THE THIRD GENERAL AND MEDIA SUMMITTHE THIRD GENERAL AND MEDIA SUMMIT

THE SWEET REWARDS THE SWEET REWARDS OF SUCCESS FOR LOCAL OF SUCCESS FOR LOCAL

SUGARCANE FARMERSUGARCANE FARMER

- 21 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Members of the South-ern African Gen-der Protocol Alli-

ance have called on all those involved in preparations for the Heads of State Summit in August in South Africa to put forward a stronger draft of the SADC Proto-col on Gender and Development. Spokeswoman Coleen Lowe Morna said that while signifi cant advances have been made in strengthening the watered down draft that Heads of State sent back for further consultation in 2007, the current draft is “strong on development; weak on rights that women have gained through successive processes culminating in the African Charter of Human and Peoples Rights.”

Key issues raised include: Some of the pertinent and

core issues addressed in the

SADC Gender Declaration and Addendum have been eliminated from the current draft. Exam-ples include legal protection from marital rape, and a broad defi nition of disability rights to include issues of dignity, secu-rity, and employment rights, not just in the area of health. These are already in CEDAW and the AU Protocol which most govern-ments in SADC have ratifi ed.

In a number of instances the Protocol has watered down oblig-atory language like “ensure” to “endeavour”, even where there are existing fi rm commitments; for example to achieving 50% representation of women in deci-sion making by 2015.

Whilst the current draft cross references key provisions with existing SADC Protocol’s many of these are themselves gender

blind (for example education; HIV and AIDS; media and informa-tion). There is need for the criti-cal gender issues in these sectors to be drawn out in the Protocol

The draft does not address the issue regarding the rights of cohabiting couples. We note that national consultations in various countries have identifi ed this as a growing trend and a critical gender issue. Gross violations, in particular children’s rights and the property rights of women are occurring daily with little or no legal protection. This is a crit-ical gap that can no longer be ignored, in view of some cred-ible studies that have been car-ried out indicating that the fam-ily has changed in SADC, and the need for policy and legislation to respond to this change.

It is necessary to clearly artic-

ulate women’s sexual and repro-ductive rights in the draft in order to enhance their promo-tion and protection as already encapsulated in the AU Protocol. The current draft is weak in this regard, for example, it does not address the right of women to control their fertility, their rights to decide on whether to have children, the number and their spacing, the right to choose any method of contraception, and the right to self protection against STI’s, including HIV and AIDS.

The defi nition of rights must extend to the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups. This is absent from the current draft and needs to be explicit, otherwise this leaves a gap in the draft.

The SADC Gender Proto-col Alliance comprises the Bot-swana Congress of NGOs

(BOCONGO); Federation of Afri-can Media Women (FAMW) – SADC; Gender Links (GL); Gen-der and Media Southern Africa Network (GEMSA); Justice and Peace (Lesotho); Malawi Coun-cil of Churches; Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA); NGO Gender Coordination Network Malawi; SAFAIDS; Society for Women and AIDS in Africa Zam-bia (SWAAZ); Women in Law and Development in Africa (WIL-DAF); Women in Law in South-ern Africa (WLSA); Women, Land and Water Rights South-ern Africa (WLWRSA); Women in Politics Caucus Botswana; Wom-en’s Leadership Centre Namibia; Young Women’s Christian Asso-ciation Botswana (YWCA); Zim-babwe Women’s Resource Cen-tre (ZWRCN).

CALLS FOR A STRONGER SASDC

PROTOCOL ON GENDER

v

vGETTING KWAZULU-NATAL LEARNING WHATEVER IT TAKES!

PROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONDEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

ISIFUNDAZWE SAKWAZULU-NATALI ISIFUNDAZWE SAKWAZULU-NATALI UMNYANGO WEZEMFUNDOUMNYANGO WEZEMFUNDO

Women behindKwaZulu-Natal Department of Education

Mrs. Ina CronjéMEC for Education

Dr. R.R. BridgemohanCurriculum Grade R -

Grade 9

Mrs. T. SifundaManager:

Special Needs Education Services

Mrs. N.S.M. ManqeleManager:

Accounts, Payments and Salaries

Mrs. N.L NtuliGeneral Manager:

Infrastructure Management

Mrs. N. NdlelaAdult Basic Education Training

Mrs. M.M.L.S. Mkhize

Manager: Demand and Acquisition

Mrs. J. Khoza Manager: Strategic

Management

Mrs. J. DlaminiGeneral Manager: ESDM (Coastal

Cluster)

Mrs. J. BhenguManager: Special

Programmes

Ms. M. VisserManager:

Umfolozi FET College (Acting)

Ms. L.C. Mbobo(Acting) Senior

General Manager: Planning and

Support Services

Ms. JMS MbuliManager: Resources Planning

Ms. H.B. KhumaloManager:

Financial Cluster D Ukhahlamba

Ms. G. MadlalaGeneral Manager: Human Resource Support Services

Ms. F.K DubazaneManager:

Education Library Information

Services

Ms. B.T. DlaminiManager:

Curriculum Grade 10 -12

Ms. T.B Mthembu Manager:

Logistics, Assets & Disposal

Ms. T.A. Gumede Manager: Offi ce

of the SG

Ms. R.H. Mcuma Chief Financial

Offi cer

Ms. Palesa Majozi Manager:

Examination Administration

Ms. N.T. NkosiManager: Othukela District

Ms. N.N. MuthwaManager: Co curricular SS

Ms. N. MaikooGeneral Manager:

Supply Chain Management

Ms. M.E. DlaminiManager: Human Resource Support

Services (Zululand

Services Centre)

Mrs. G.M.P. Sidaki Manager:

Empangeni District

Mrs. C. MpatiGeneral Manager:

Masifundisane Adult Literacy Campaign

Mrs. T.P. SitholeManager:

Quality Assurance

Mrs. N.A. NgcoboManager: National School Nutrition

Programme

Ms. L.C. MboboSenior General

Manager: HR and Admin Services &(Acting) General

Manager: Offi ce of the MEC & SG

Ms. Mbali ThusiMedia & Citizen

Liaison

- 23 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Carly Bernadete is Grade 8 pupil at Marist Broth-er’s in Durban. She

believes that women role mod-els are important because “they send out positive messages to encourage young women to suc-ceed”. “Young girls like myself need to learn from those older and more experienced than us. We need our mothers and other leaders to show us that we can make something of our future. They need to lead the way.” At 14, Carly is the co-editor of a newsletter called Teen News.

It is a publication that hits the streets monthly and focuses on teenage issues. “I got the idea of starting Teen News after reading about the Sapref School Entre-preneurs Programme, which takes place in schools every year. I am very proud of our newslet-ter, which is distributing at a number of schools in greater Dur-ban.” Recently I featured in a dis-cussion forum on SABC’s YoTV Blue Couch on making friends at a new school, and we have been invited by several other representatives to submit a pro-posal on how Teen News might be used for conveying valuable material to teenagers like us.”

Carly says she is proud to be South African. “We have a

democracy that gives women a chance to go out there and live their dreams. Sometimes it is difficult because not everyone sees a woman as someone who can lead, take decisions and also achieve like boys or men can”. She says there are several areas where women need to be given a chance to be recognised. “We need more women priests to lead our churches. I think a women president for our country will also be a good thing. Women are in business but need meet more with younger women so that we can also learn how to do what they do.”

Carly says she has a picture of herself at pre-school that was signed by Madiba. His message read: “Best wishes to one of our future leaders” and signed Nel-son R Mandela. “This message means so much to me. I think there are lost of women who are like Madiba. They are just not seen or heard.”

Carly says her mom is her role model.” She is smart and knows so much about so many impor-tant things. She guides me into understanding the real mean-ing of things. She has taught me about our country’s past and why we must protect what we have today. I get to talk to her about

Aids/HIV, and other important s tuf f that affects teen-agers. Most of all she teaches me to have dreams and goals and to respect myself.”

Asked what her dreams were she answered: “When I grow up I want to be an actress here and abroad. It will give me a plat-form to express my thoughts about all that is important. It will give me a chance to help oth-ers.”

Asked what leadership quali-ties she expects from women role models she adds: “They must listen, be understanding, work with all types of people - races and religion. They must give sup-port, motivate and inspire. They must share their skills and their love.”

Sne Mas-uku is a m e d i a

graduate from the Durban Uni-versity of Tech-nology. At 24 she says she has seen enough to know that women need to be recognised for their worth, their contribu-tion and their role as mothers and daughters. “I come from Kwa-Mashu. I am one of the lucky one’s to have escaped a hard and harsh future. This is

because of some strong women around me who have given me a chance to succeed. I have a full time job, a young daughter and I want to give her a better future.”

She owes her success to her mother who is a nurse. “You know when you grow up with a health practitioner, you are taught at an early age to take care of your body. This instills a sense of respect for myself. I was also taught about how to take care of myself - from washing my hands before I eat to wash-ing fruit before I eat it. There were strict rules about how girl children should behave. These may be little rules but they mat-ter in the long run. We need to start small. Make small strides before we can get to bigger

things.” Masuku believes that too many girl children do not have the supervision of a well respected female adult and that is why they end up having “terrible lives and no dreams”. She said it is also important for girl chil-dren to be brought up in homes where the mother is recognised as an important role player. “This allows a girl child to grow up to be independent, confi dent and to have respect for herself.”

She says women have impor-tant roles to play in society. “We do not give women the credit and recognition they deserve. Media needs to write about it some more. Our communities need to respect our mothers more and rape and violence must be con-demned by all.”

WHAT OUR FUTURE WOMEN

LEADERS HAVE TO SAY| Carly and Sne are future leaders in their occupations |

���

The tide is turning with greater speed in favour of women in all sectors of our society. The inequities and imbalances faced by women have been highlighted in recent years and this has gained women further impetus towards empowerment.

My Department takes seriously the role that women are playing in Agricultural Development, Administration, Conservation, Environmental Management and Vetenary Services. This is borne out by the fact that the overwhelming majority of the Senior Managers in my Department are women. We are one of the few Provincial Departments that has a Directorate specifically tasked with Women and Youth Affairs.

Key Positions of Finance, Corporate Services, Legal Services, Risk Management and Environmental Management are headed by women Directors, among many others.

Women are key drivers, participants and beneficiaries in our programmes viz; Invasion Alien Species, Co-operatives, Landcare, Coastal Management and Farmer Support. Women drivers, participants and beneficiaries are from communities, municipalities, other state departments, beneficiary groups, agri-business and non-governmental organisations.

The empowerment of women in leadership roles in my Department, and externally will be an ongoing focus area. Women in agriculture, environment and conservation have developed communities, created jobs and wealth and are an asset to the sector.

Therefore I would like to take this opportunity to join and salute the women of our department, province and country as we celebrate women’s day.

MESSAGE FROM THE MEC FOR WOMEN’S DAYMESSAGE FROM THE MEC FOR WOMEN’S DAY

KZN Agriculture and Environmental Affairs

UmNyango WezoLimo NezeMvelo

isiFundazwe SakwaZulu-Natali

Sarah Allan Manager: Environmental

Management Services: South Region

Thuledu KhumaloManager: finance:

North Region

Babalwa BodlaniManager: Internal

Control & Risk Management

Nonkonzo MolaiChief Business Officer

Boni NkosiGM: South Region

Mpume MtshaliManager: Finance

South

Nana ShangeManager:

Macro-Planning

Lani WepenerManager: Inter-govern-

mental Partnerships and Co-operation

Pinky MofokengGM: Corporate Services

Nonhlanhla MkhizeManager: Invasive Alien

Species

Nishi SeegobinManager: Legal

Services

Phumla VilakaziManager: Policy

Monitoring &Implementation

Thoko SheziManager: Massification

Projects

Mr Mtholephi MthimkhuluKZN MEC for Agriculture and

Environmental Affairs

Mr Siddiq AdamActing HOD

Ladies behind the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs

- 25 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

AT THE AGE OF AT THE AGE OF 91 MNCANE IS THE OLDEST 91 MNCANE IS THE OLDEST

WOMEN LEARNER IN KWAZULU-NATALWOMEN LEARNER IN KWAZULU-NATAL

KZN’s oldest learner, Mncane Radebe of Inkandla on the northern KwaZulu-Natal fi nally achieved her dream of reading and writing at the ripe old age of 90. Gogo Radebe was one of over 14 000 adult learners from all over the province who are now able to read and

write, thanks to the Masifundisane programme, a project developed by the Provincial Department of Education.

At the ripe old age of 91 – Mncane Radebe of Inkandla has made her

dream of learning to read and write come true, showing that you are never too old to succeed. She is one of over 14 000 adult learners who have escaped the curse of illiteracy before dying. She was among the many from deep rural areas of the province who graduated at a ceremony held at the Royal show grounds in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday.

They were part of the Masi-fundisane programme, an ini-tiative by the provincial depart-ment of education to reduce the high rate of illiteracy by teaching people of all ages how to read and write. Radebe speaks of her new achievement as if it is a mir-acle. She shed tears of joy when the provincial MEC for educa-tion Ina Cronjé awarded her with a certificate. When it came to her moment to say how she felt, she laughed and cried like a lit-tle child.

“I always knew that although

I was deprived of a right to edu-cation in the past, my dream has always been to be able to write my name.” Her story although sad instils hope in those around her. Under the apartheid system life was hard for black people but the added burden of tradi-tional values also meant women had no role to play in the home. “To go to school and learn in the community would have brought disgrace to my family. I had to herd the cows and my duties were to fetch water.” She said these and other chores made it diffi cult for her to learn how to read or write.

But she bears no grudges or animosity – instead she shows a deep sense of gratitude despite the loss of education for the past 90 years. “My enrolling with the Masifundisane classes has taught me to read, write and count change. I can now sign my own signature at the bank”. “I am so excited that I am now able to help my grandchildren with their homework,” she said with pride.

Masifundisane project manager Cynthia Mpati said when they started the project in 2006 the province had an illiterate popula-tion 1.2 million, since then more than 75 000 people have gradu-ated in the programme. “Today there is about 80 000 people in this province that cannot read and write and with Masifundis-ane we can fi ght illiteracy, “she said. The learners during these classes are also taught the “lan-guage of the economy.” They get the skills of how to create their own business plans for developing community projects. These include plans for small agriculture and farming projects like growing vegetables farming and selling craft work. “These skills help them put food on the table and they are not left sitting at home after obtaining the read-ing, writing and counting skills. They are able to make a differ-ence in their home and commu-nities”. Last year’s oldest gradu-ate on the programme was 101 years-old.

The Msunduzi MunicipalityThe Msunduzi MunicipalityMsunduzi women -Msunduzi women -

yesterday, today andyesterday, today and tomorrowtomorrow

City MayorCity MayorCllr Zanele HlatshwayoCllr Zanele Hlatshwayo

City of ChoiceThe City o

Building a lasting legacy for generations to come

National Women’s Day is a day to commemorate women’s struggle for change, to celebrate the progress, which has been made towards improvement of quality of life of women. It is the day for reaffi rming our commit-ment to the work towards the liberation of women. As we celebrate the National Women’s Day, we acknowl-edge that we have come too far and still have a long way to go to achieve full emancipation of women from the hardships they have experienced because of their race, gender and social class. Many women were part of the selfl ess contribution to the struggle of emancipa-tion of women, bringing about a free and democratic country. Today as we celebrate let us remember those twenty thousand women who took part in the 1956 march, and also the struggle of all South Africans, let us pay tribute to the heroines of our struggle: Lilian Ngoyi, Frances Baard, Helen Joseph, Ellen Khuzwayo, Winifred Kgoare, Rahima Moosa, Sophie Williams de Bruyn, Florence Matomela, Martha Mothlakoana, Bertha Mashaba, Charlotte Maxeke, Florence Mkhize, Ida Mnt-wana, Rita Ndzanga, Dorothy Nyembe, Annie Silinga,

Albertina Sisulu, Dora Tamana, Ray Alexander, Ruth First, Victoria Mxenge and many others who dedicated their lives to the struggle for women’s emancipation and the freedom of South Africa’s people. These women inspired the struggles of later generations and women’s organizations which helped to fi nally bring apartheid to its knees. As we celebrate this day, let us remember those women who fell during the struggles against apartheid and oppression of women. Let us not forget about those women whose husbands died, and left them widowed. Let us remember those women who died as a result of husbands or male partners shooting at them and their children. There is nothing so sad and painful than being deprived of the love and care of a mother. As we cel-ebrate this day, we shall at the same time honour those women who made an immense contribution to the social development and advancement of the rights of women. Today we say: women’s rights are human rights. Free-dom is indivisible. Our society is not free until women are free. Our society is not truly democratic unless women are able to meaningfully participate in that de-

mocracy at every level - in government, parliament, all governing structures, and business, at work and indeed in the home. We must also fi ght for equality between men and women in all areas of life. Equality means an end to domination and building mutual respect and self respect. For every child born of a woman, the duty is set to hon-our, protect, encourage, uplift, respect and befriend their female counterpart for their selfl essness, their creativity, their love, their commitment to the country, as they con-tinue to work for their full emancipation, through their words and deeds, in their daily lives.

Equal power and glory to the Women of South Africa! Wathint ‘abafazi! Wathint’imbokodo! Happy Women’s day!!!!!!!

DEPARTMENT OFDEPARTMENT OF

PUBLIC WORKSPUBLIC WORKSKWAZULU-NATALKWAZULU-NATAL

Putting women in Putting women in the forefront of the forefront of service deliveryservice delivery

Building communities through constructionBuilding communities through construction

Ms Lydia JohnsonMEC for Public Works

Dr FB MadlophaHead of Department

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works under the stewardship The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works under the stewardship of MEC Lydia Johnson firmly believes that the issue of women empower-of MEC Lydia Johnson firmly believes that the issue of women empower-ment must be a priority in all its programmes to ensure transformation that ment must be a priority in all its programmes to ensure transformation that would result in women taking a lead in their communities. The transforma-would result in women taking a lead in their communities. The transforma-tion process also includes the promotion and active participation of wom-tion process also includes the promotion and active participation of wom-en in senior management positions. Last year the Department had seven en in senior management positions. Last year the Department had seven women employees in senior management positions and this number has women employees in senior management positions and this number has increased to nine in 2008.increased to nine in 2008.

Within its broad transformation agenda that includes women, the youth Within its broad transformation agenda that includes women, the youth and the disabled, the department has embarked on a series of interven-and the disabled, the department has embarked on a series of interven-tions to ensure that women remain the primary focus of its efforts to ad-tions to ensure that women remain the primary focus of its efforts to ad-dress gender imbalances on both social and economic level of society. The dress gender imbalances on both social and economic level of society. The Department has demonstrated this by ensuring that its policies are in line Department has demonstrated this by ensuring that its policies are in line with Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment agenda of government with Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment agenda of government - with emphasis on women empowerment. Our broader aim is to increase - with emphasis on women empowerment. Our broader aim is to increase the level of participation of women in the economic sector of our province. the level of participation of women in the economic sector of our province. During the 2007/2008 financial year, the department awarded 36% of ten-During the 2007/2008 financial year, the department awarded 36% of ten-der contracts to women contractors. This figure represents a total invest-der contracts to women contractors. This figure represents a total invest-ment of R360 million.ment of R360 million.

One way of ensuring that women in KwaZulu-Natal are afforded equal op-One way of ensuring that women in KwaZulu-Natal are afforded equal op-portunities is through transfer of professional skills with the aim of increas-portunities is through transfer of professional skills with the aim of increas-ing the pool of skills within the fields where there is a serious shortage of ing the pool of skills within the fields where there is a serious shortage of such skills within the built environment. In addition, the department also such skills within the built environment. In addition, the department also encourages women to become involved in the property sector not only as encourages women to become involved in the property sector not only as employees but also as property owners to bridge the existing gap in the employees but also as property owners to bridge the existing gap in the industry. industry.

Among other programmes of the department aimed at encouraging wom-Among other programmes of the department aimed at encouraging wom-en and youth participation in the property sector is the Property Incubator en and youth participation in the property sector is the Property Incubator Programme. Its main objectives are to facilitate the transfer of skills from Programme. Its main objectives are to facilitate the transfer of skills from the emerged to the emerging markets in the property sector; provide a the emerged to the emerging markets in the property sector; provide a platform for the development of a holistic approach to the property indus-platform for the development of a holistic approach to the property indus-try; and contribute to the generation of skills within the property sector. try; and contribute to the generation of skills within the property sector.

Other programmes of the department aimed at encouraging the maximum Other programmes of the department aimed at encouraging the maximum participation of women in the economic sphere include the Expanded Pub-participation of women in the economic sphere include the Expanded Pub-lic Works Programme(EPWP) and the National Youth Service (NYS) and lic Works Programme(EPWP) and the National Youth Service (NYS) and more women are encouraged to be more involved on the newly launched more women are encouraged to be more involved on the newly launched Izandla Ziyagezana Programme - a departmental initiative aimed at pov-Izandla Ziyagezana Programme - a departmental initiative aimed at pov-erty alleviation and job creation focusing on labour intensive methods for erty alleviation and job creation focusing on labour intensive methods for manual clearance of vacant provincial government or state land. manual clearance of vacant provincial government or state land.

Mrs J MakhayeSouthern Region’s Acting Manager

Mrs L LindaGeneral Manager:

Real Estate

Ms NB MnconywaHead of Ministry

Mrs T KhuzwayoMidlands Region’s Acting Manager

Mrs D Raichund Manager Supply Chain

Management

Ms L Moorosi Manager Legal

Services

Ms Xoli Ngiba Manager Human

Resource Management

Ms W.N. Mhlongo Manager Operations

Coordinations

- 27 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

“ “WOMEN MUST BE

RESPECTED FOR WHO THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY DO

“I can very well say that I can now iden-

tify with the trials and tribulations, the obsta-cles and the pain that

woman, especially black women, when they begin to start

their own small busi-nesses”.

May Mashoko is a med-ical doctor by profes-sion. In 2006 she gave

up the demanding life of a doc-tor/clinical researcher to settle for more fl exible profession that would help her realise her poten-tial and help make a tangible dif-ference in empowering other women to do the same.

“When I do something I want to be able to give it my absolute best. At the time I ran out of hours in my day. I had a health set back and I knew I had to look at going into another fi eld that was less demanding but also allowed me the opportunity to give back into my community. I was not ready to give up and retire.” She adds that as a researcher she was mak-ing a difference but she always remained committed to com-munity activism and worked on that within her scope of medi-cine both in the health and HIV/Aids arena.

She recalls that in the fi eld of medicine - both as a doctor and researcher - she had to look at what she could fi nd to help oth-ers be it through her diagnosis or her research. The challenge was

to now do that for herself. “When I decided to make the shift it involved lot of soul searching. It was a risk. There was so much I did not know and so much I had to learn.”

Then when she least expected it an opportunity presented itself and today she is a shareholder at a leading shoe manufactur-er Dick Wittington/Ridgley Shoes. “The truth is I never planned on going this route. I saw an oppor-tunity and decided to take it. I was receptive to the idea because I knew I could make a difference to my life and those around me.

Her acceptance into the busi-ness world has given her access to platforms and opportunities previously unknown to her. She gets to meet people with experi-ence, knowledge and resources. “We appear to be under the mis-guided view that to help oth-ers we have to give them hand-outs. I believe to help others we need to share our skills, our ideas and our knowledge.” She says being exposed to so much more means that she can use what she knows and learns to help others. One of the key platforms

in which she had helped others access resources to develop is through her involvement in the KZN Chapter of the South African Women Entrepreneur’s Network (SAWEN). Through SAWEN she is able to share her skills and put women in touch with the right people to assist them in achiev-

ing their goals. “Not many of our people even know that there are opportunities out there to over-come poverty in their homes and communities. Stakeholders in government and the private

sector need to create a greater awareness around self employ-ment and the opportunities that exist.”

Her short journey into the world of the self-employed busi-ness arena has opened her eyes to so much. “I can very well say that I can now identify with the trials and tribulations, the obsta-cles and the pain that woman, especially black women, when they begin to start their own small businesses. While there are the obstacles she fi rmly believes that that self employment is key to fi ghting poverty and develop-ing our communities. “It’s not easy but it can be done.”

She says black empowerment is an interesting concept but in practice it remains elusive to the very people it is geared to serve.

“Training, Training and more Training, is key to the success of any government policy geared to develop black woman busi-ness leader. Business manage-ment skills including financial management skills are crucial to develop all new entrants into the business arena.

“The training documents and

manuals must be presented in the language of the people. Eng-lish is the world language but we have a high illiteracy rate and must take that into considera-tion in all government projects and tasks geared towards devel-oping our people.”

She also believes that the private sector needs to do its bit to encourage black busi-ness development. “How can we encourage people to start their small community busi-nesses when our fi nancial insti-tutions still have a structure that believes that business can only succeed in areas that are well positioned and not previously disadvantaged? Besides if your address is good enough and you don’t have the collateral or the guarantees then getting that fi rst business loan are a dream.”

Another obstacle is that of women being seen as “append-ages of their partners or husbands.” “Decision makers in society must wake up to the fact that men succeed because their partners and wives makes sacrifices to allow them to succeed. But the same is not there for women. We are often judged by what our husbands do. “It is time that women are judged for who they are and for the mul-tiple roles they play as mothers and leaders. They do not have to work twice as hard and worse if they are black to be accepted, recognised and respected. Lead-ers in all segments of our soci-ety - men especially, must preach the evangelisation that a woman must be respected irrespective of who she is and what she does.”

Her tips for women going into

self-employment:

• Work hard. It will not hurt you

• Have a positive and deter-mined attitude

• Support other women and share your skills

• Build on your endurance as a woman

• Never go for the money fi rst - it will come later

• Never give up or give in• Being bribed into giving

something of yourself is a short term gain

• Believe in yourself

- 28 -

National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

KEY POINTS TO CONSIDER WHEN STARTING

YOUR OWN BUSINESS • Make sure your business

idea is solid to ensure suc-cess. Test your idea with friends and strangers. Be aware of your competitors, and fi nd ways to differenti-ate yourself.

• Plot your public relations and advertising strategy. An idea is one thing, but letting people know about that idea is another.

• Line up fi nancing and have a clear concise budget and fi nancial plan.

• Mentally prepare. Starting a small business is hard work. You are not just the boss; you are also the accountant, the janitor and the reception-ist.

• Keep your business and

personal life separate. Too many people have learned the hard way that if you commingle business and personal responsibilities, you won’t make any real progress in either.

• Stay organized and use tech-nology. The No. 1 reason businesses fail is because of poor management.

• Once your business is up and running, how do you grow and thrive

• Confidence and persever-ance. Don’t give up easily, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

• Funding your business. Make sure you have money set aside and that you prop-erly allocate your expenses.

• Remain competitive and fl exible. Keep your eye on the market.

• Don’t work in a vacuum. Connect with women in local business organizations.

• Don’t forget yourself. It is easy to let your new busi-ness consume you. Take breaks. Sometimes work can wait.

• The customer always comes fi rst. The best way to be suc-cessful is to provide a prod-uct or service that exceeds your customers’ expecta-tions. The key to a success-ful, long-term business is to build a base of loyal custom-ers who return for products or services.

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

Jobs don’t come by easy and hawker Fikile Mfeka says it is rewarding to make a liv-ing honestly...

Zulu teacher Neli Zungu of Dingizwe High school in the impoverished area of Ufafa in Ixopo says her passion is to give learners a bright future.

“I want them to have better lives.”

Doctor Nomgcobo Mzizana doing what she does best

Thulisile Mpanza and her new baby boy Sbonelo

Proud women on Durban’s streets fi ght poverty by selling vegetables and fruit. Jabu Sokhabaze and Thembi Mazubane says life is hard and they must do what they can

to put food on the table and pay the school fees.

Buyelaphi Ndlovu loves gardening... She says fresh vegetables keeps us healthy and strong

Female doctors at the pediatric department at King Edward hospital. They are pas-sionate about their jobs.

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK ....

Mr Bheki CeleMr Bheki CeleMEC for Transport, MEC for Transport, Community Safety Community Safety

and Liasonand Liason

As the MEC for Transport, Community Safety & Liaison I would like to applaud the government of the day for being able to transform the living conditions of women. Since 1994, there has been a signifi cant change where women occupy influential positions without any fear of victimization and gender demoralization.

Over the years women in South Africa have mobilised around the themes of Respect, Unity, Solidarity, Peace, and Development in the combat for the emancipation of women and the restoration of their dignity and effective participation against all obstacles posed by society.

We need to eradicate the remnants of sexism that still exist in our society and give women their rightful place in the management of all the affairs of the state and their necessary involvement in the economic dynamics, especially in understanding the important role of women in their efforts of national edification.

To all women in both my Departments - let us continue to embrace the embodied spirit of Ubuntu and keep to the ideals of Defending the Weak.

OFFICE OF THE MEC - TRANSPORT, OFFICE OF THE MEC - TRANSPORT, COMMUNITY SAFETY AND LIAISON:COMMUNITY SAFETY AND LIAISON:MR. BHEKI CELEMR. BHEKI CELE

Thandeka MbonambiManager:

Development

Lulu MdletsheManager:

Expanded Public Works Programmes

Nqobile KhozaManaher:

Security Services

Bongiwe NdlovuManagerEconomic

Empowerment

WOMEN’S MONTH WOMEN’S MONTH MESSAGEMESSAGE

“Defending The Weak”“Defending The Weak”

The year 2008 marked another success for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport’s gender equity agenda following the graduation this year of 83 Road Traffi c Inspectorate (RTi) offi cers, of which 82 were women.

This latest achievement follows on the Department being awarded the national award for Service Delivery at the award’s ceremony in Bloemfontein.

The graduating students recently received their diplomas paving the way for them to assume duties ahead of the 2010 World Cup. This boost to the Department’s capacity in managing the province’s road network will help assist the country host a successful world cup.

Department of Transport MEC Mr Bheki Cele said it is a pleasure to see young women being empowered to enter the profession.

“As you graduate today I expect you to remain vigilant against corruption. Offenders will try and bribe you. Do not be tempted. You will lose your job and your integrity. We love you and respect the work you will be doing in order to ensure the protection and safety of our peo-ple on the roads,” said Cele.

Since 2004, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has recruited one black female General Manager; nine female managers, and 86 female middle managers. All in all, since 2004, a total of 824 women were appointed from level 1 to 8 in this technically demanding department.

While much effort has been made to improve the workforce profi le of the Department, there is still a need to accelerate the recruitment, promotion and retention of women to ensure their true representation in the workforce.

MORE FEMALE TRAFFIC OFFICERS BEING RECRUITED

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National Women’s Month 2008National Women’s Month 2008

CONTACT DETAILSThis publication was published by MediaCom SA.

373 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201P.O. Box 965, Luxmi, 3207

Tel: +27 33 394 0044/43Fax: +27 33 294 0046

When leaders of the Southern African Development Com-

munity (SADC) meet in mid-August in Johannesburg for their annual Summit, one of their expected announcements is a regional Free Trade Area. A large amount of media debate is sure to follow, pondering the pros and cons of increasing regional inte-gration, what this means for com-petitiveness, and the impact on business and entrepreneurs.

As usual, it is likely that women, and a gender perspec-tive, will be absent from all of this economic coverage. A quick glance at the business pages of any newspaper, and it is evident that the content is male-oriented, with conventional story angles. Though the scope of coverage is improving, traditional economic analysis misses many intriguing stories about women in business and the economy, and how rap-idly changing gender roles are changing the world of work for-ever.

Business Unusual (BU), a book launching 13 August as part of Women’s Month celebrations in South Africa, challenges tradi-tional notions of economic and business reporting. Looking at topics such as the hidden econ-omies of care, the world of work and enterprise, development, glo-balisation and trade, budgeting and governance, this book offers unique perspectives on gender, the economy and business, and related media reporting.

With a foreword by Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and produced by Gender Links, a Southern African non-govern-mental organisation, the book fol-lows a two-year series of regional media training workshops of the same name. The 217 participat-ing journalists produced thought-provoking articles about business and the economy, a selection of which are found in the book.

Those interviewed, including heads of companies, informal traders, sex workers, entrepre-neurs, and citizens, offered their opinions and experiences on eve-rything from budgets to starting a business.

This fresh perspective is a refreshing change from tradi-tional coverage. While women sources in Southern Africa increased from 17% to 19% between the regional Gender and Media Baseline Study in 2002 and the Global Media Mon-itoring Project conducted across 76 countries in 2005, this was still below the global average of 21%. Moreover, women remained almost invisible on topics such as economics and business, politics and sports.

Yet the numbers only tell half

the story. Even when included, both the mainstream media and tabloid press often portray suc-cessful and powerful women in ways that demean their status, while men are portrayed a strong and powerful.

According to Susan Myzo Magagula, Chief Executive Offi -cer (CEO) of the Swazi Observer (and fi rst female CEO in the Swa-ziland print industry), men fea-ture in a more diverse range of roles often associated with power, money and prestige whilst women mostly feature in stories that emphasise their tra-ditional roles, their physical attri-butes and their vulnerability.

Moreover, media often com-pares or appends women busi-ness people, politicians, and sports fi gures their male partners. Speaking at the Malawi BU work-shop, Agrina Mussa pointed out that she is the owner of a stock and manufacturing company, a commercial cleaning company, and formerly a company to trace debt. Mussa has held positions as President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, chaired ESKOM and is the Vice Chair of the National Association of Busi-nesswomen. “Better known as the wife of the Minister of Trans-port,” she added. Despite all of Mussa’s achievements, media constantly appends her to her husband in the media

Owning media businesses is also a challenging story. Pat Mwase publishes the Mining Mir-ror, a weekly mining newspaper

for mining communities along the Copperbelt in Zambia, for-merly published by international conglomerate Anglo American. Mwase says it has not been easy. Once printers and vendors knew they were dealing with a woman, they started giving her the round around. She had to work extra hard to command respect from them.

It is a similar story in Tanzania where women like Emelda Mwa-manga and Maria Sarungi are breaking new ground. Talented and hardworking, they are shat-tering glass ceilings in the male-dominated media industry where they own and run innovative and creative enterprises.

Sarungi is the director for Compass Communications Ltd, a media production company, which produces three television programmes for a local televi-sion channel. Mwamanga is the owner and editor of Bang Mag-azine, an upbeat urban women’s magazine with a male and female readership, founded in 2003.

Mwamanga and Sarungi have had to deal with prejudice from their male counterparts. But this has not stopped them from pur-suing their careers. Both women agree that the industry is not women-friendly. “As a woman I have had to deal with men telling me that I cannot succeed in the industry, purely because I am a woman,” said Mwamanga.

The inclusion of women in the media and especially in business and economic reporting is an

important part of covering these beats. Failing to notice how pol-icies and economic trends affect both genders means media only gets half the story.

For example, women tend to care for children, the elderly, infi rm, and the sick, and perform a wide variety of unpaid “care work,” none of which is rec-ognised or counted in national economic statistics. Moreover, national budgets that cut gov-ernment expenditures from care services such as hospitals mean the burden of care shifts to women and girls.

The lack of recognition of women’s work leads to lack of public investment in the areas where women are concentrated, such as the informal sector

employment, rural subsistence production, domestic “reproduc-tive” work or the care economy and voluntary community work.

While we celebrate Women’s Month, we must remember that women’s achievements happen all year round. Rethinking eco-nomic and business reporting and recognising the important roles that both women and men play can open up many doors for economic empowerment, and also for unique media stories.

Deborah Walter is the editor at Gender Links. This article is part of the Gender Links Opinion and Commentary Service that pro-vides fresh views on everyday news.

BUSINESS WOMEN CAN BENEFIT FROM MEDIA COVERAGE

BY DEBORAH WALTER

Deborah Walter interviewing Emelda Mwamanga, Bang Magazine