A belated Women’s Day celebration was no less festive when Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez joined a group of Atlantis women on Friday 1 September at the Saxonsea Civic.
She said the event, originally planned for 8 August but postponed due to the taxi strike, was one of celebration, hope and empowerment, made sweeter by the delicious servings of cake and tea.
The MEC said Western Cape Department of Social Development’s (WCDSD) Atlantis office had launched a women’s empowerment project in August.
It aimed to empower single mothers from different socio-economic backgrounds by making them aware of opportunities for long-term sustainability.
“Through empowering these mothers the hope is they will do the same for others in their community, creating widespread change,” Fernandez said.
The 12-month project is thanks a partnership involving the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, City of Cape Town (CoCT), National Youth Development Agency, Basic Package of Support, National Business Institute, Community Colleges and West Coast College.
With all stakeholders present, women were informed of the different skills development and job opportunities available.
Fernandez told the women: “My wish for you is that this project instil renewed hope and open a new world of possibility for you and your family, and ultimately spur you on to become change makers in your community.”
She added government cannot address socio-economic issues such as unemployment on its own, and change makers were needed.
The minister said government needs to partner with the residents, NGOs, and the private sector to make a meaningful difference.
Mireille Wenger, Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, said the provincial government was working hard to empower many more women through the numerous programmes.
“The fact is we need small, medium and micro-enterprises to succeed because they are the backbone of our economy and are responsible for up to 70% of jobs in South Africa,” she said.
“More than this, the research is clear on the positive impact of women-owned businesses as well as ensuring gender parity in the workforce. So more than being fair and just, there is a clear economic case for enabling, supporting, and driving the participation of women in business.”
