BY LINDELWA MYENI
EZULWINI– Women are already making a significant contribution to economic growth through entrepreneurship, investment, leadership and professional work, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has said.
Khumalo made the remarks during a thought leadership conversation on the role of women in growing Southern Africa’s economies, held at Royal Villas, Ezulwini, as part of Women’s Month.
The Minister said women’s economic empowerment goes beyond inclusion, emphasising that it is about growing economies, building industries, strengthening competitiveness and developing strong leadership.
He highlighted women-led businesses such as Scoops N Giggles in Lubombo and the Women Processors in Shiselweni as examples of enterprises turning opportunities into sustainable businesses and moving further along the value chain.
“These stories show that when women are given the right opportunities and support, they can build businesses, create livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Khumalo said.
He noted that women are already contributing as entrepreneurs, professionals, investors, executives and decision-makers, adding that the focus should now be on creating an environment that enables them to reach their full potential.
Khumalo further called for stronger collaboration among Government, business, financial institutions and the media to expand opportunities for women, particularly in accessing finance, markets, technology and leadership opportunities.
“Women are not waiting to be invited into the economy. They are already building it,” he said.
The gathering brought together leaders from Government, business and civil society to reflect on women’s contribution to the region’s economies and explore ways of creating greater opportunities for women-led economic growth.
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(Courtesy Pic)
