Women make up half the global population, yet fewer women than men participate in entrepreneurial activities. Research consistently shows that empowering women drives sustainable development. When women access economic opportunities, they uplift themselves and significantly contribute to their families, communities, and national economies. This ripple effect impacts education, health, community development, and poverty alleviation.
The Tshwane Women in Business Awards (TWIBA), held on November 26 at the Ditsong Museum of Cultural History, celebrated women who lead, innovate, and uplift others. Themed “Advocating diversity and inclusion of Tshwane women trailblazers for economic emancipation,” the event honored the contributions of female business leaders to Tshwane’s economy.
“These awards celebrate women overcoming challenges and breaking barriers—innovators transforming waste into reusable products, farmers feeding communities, and tech entrepreneurs solving everyday problems,” said Dr. Nasiphi Moya, Executive Mayor of Tshwane. The event also underscored Tshwane’s commitment to ensuring women’s central role in the city’s economic development.
Denmark’s ambassador to South Africa, Elsebeth Sondergaard Krone, acknowledged South Africa’s efforts in celebrating women but emphasized the need for more progress, noting, “Globally, women hold 33% of senior positions. In South Africa, it’s 42%, but we must aim for 50%.”
Tshwane’s Local Economic Development (LED) Strategy prioritizes sectors like the Green Economy, Automotive, and Agribusiness, where women’s participation is actively promoted. Initiatives like the Tshwane Agri-Parks Programme support over 700 small-scale farmers, many of whom are women, addressing food security and economic resilience. Renewable energy and waste management projects in the Green Economy further highlight women’s leadership in sustainability.
Through public procurement policies, Tshwane ensures equitable access for women-owned businesses, fostering inclusive growth. Public-private partnerships amplify these efforts, unlocking resources and networks for women entrepreneurs.
The 2024 winners included Kool Krew (Manufacturing), Elishiva Trading (Agro Processing), and MH Automotive Engineering (Automotive). Special recognitions went to Bongi Bees and Moipone Aesthetics for their innovation.
Dr. Moya emphasized, “By recognizing these achievements, we reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Tshwane.” TEDA CEO Lardo Stander concluded, expressing gratitude for the event’s success and optimism for a brighter future for women entrepreneurs in Tshwane.
