KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has announced a R200 million Women Advancement Fund aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs.
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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has announced a R200 million Women Advancement Fund aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs and accelerating economic empowerment. The fund, which was launched in August 2024, seeks to provide financial support, mentorship, and market access to women-led businesses across the province.
Speaking at the International Women’s Day commemoration in KwaMashu at the weekend, Premier Ntuli emphasised the urgent need to advance gender equality through economic empowerment.
According to the United Nations website, International Women's Day, celebrated on March 8 in many countries around the world, is a day to recognise women for their achievements.
The KZN event, held under the theme “Accelerate Action: Collectively, We Can Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” highlighted the persistent challenges women face, including gender-based violence (GBV), unemployment, and economic exclusion.
The Premier outlined the province’s commitment to ensuring that women have equal access to land, funding, and business opportunities.
He noted that the Women Advancement Fund will directly address economic barriers that often leave women financially dependent and vulnerable to abuse.
“In the coming weeks, we will embark on roadshows across different districts to assist women in applying for funding,” Ntuli said.
“Apart from financial assistance, the fund will also provide mentorship and access to markets, ensuring women-owned businesses thrive.”
Women in agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors are expected to be among the primary beneficiaries of the initiative.
The provincial government will also work closely with stakeholders, including the private sector and development agencies, to expand opportunities for women.
Ntuli noted that research has consistently shown that investing in women-led businesses boosts economic growth. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, increasing women’s participation in the workforce could significantly raise South Africa’s GDP.
He stressed that women’s economic inclusion is not just a social justice issue but also a key driver of economic growth.
“Empowering women is not just about fairness; it is about unlocking economic potential and ensuring inclusive development,” he added.
While economic empowerment remains a priority, Premier Ntuli acknowledged that the province continues to grapple with high levels of gender-based violence and femicide.
He cited police statistics indicating that eThekwini Metro recorded 2 252 cases of GBV between October and December 2023, making it one of the worst-affected areas in the country.
To combat this crisis, the government has partnered with the private sector to introduce interventions such as a GBVF App, which will provide immediate emergency assistance to victims of violence.
Additionally, a new Thuthuzela Care Centre is set to open in Jozini, in northern KZN providing shelter and psychosocial support for survivors.
“We cannot talk about women’s empowerment without addressing the violence they endure on a daily basis,” Ntuli stated.
“As we accelerate economic opportunities for women, we must also strengthen legal protections and support systems.”
He urged men to become active allies in the fight for gender equality. “The responsibility to end gender-based violence and economic exclusion does not rest on women alone. It requires the collective effort of society, government, businesses, and communities.”