Public Procurement Bill Paves Way For Economic Inclusion Of Women, Youth, Disabled: Chikunga

Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga said the Public Procurement Bill gives her department a chance to push for practical solutions to address the ongoing exclusion of women, youth, and people with disabilities in the economy.

Speaking at the University of South Africa on Thursday, Chikunga praised President Cyril Ramaphosa for signing the Public Procurement Bill into law, which aims to create a single, efficient, and fair system for regulating public procurement, including preferential procurement, across all government bodies.

She also applauded the president for serving as the Chairperson of the African Union in 2020 and forwarding several recommendations for the advancement of women on the continent, which were later adopted by AU Heads of State.

"As a department, we will be bringing forward tangible interventions through which this legislation will serve to redress the longstanding and ongoing socio-economic exclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities," Chikunga said, SA News reported.

Chikunga also noted a surge in women-owned businesses across important sectors like energy, tourism, agriculture, the ocean economy and manufacturing.

The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Women's Entrepreneurship Report highlighted women in South Africa are among the most innovative and fast-growing entrepreneurs worldwide.

"There is sufficient evidence that reaffirms the importance of women entrepreneurs in contributing to the overall productivity and transformation of our economy through diversifying industries, innovation, and fostering economic resilience," Chikunga mentioned.

She added, "Women-owned businesses contribute to the creation of employment opportunities, promote inclusive supply chains, and stimulate local economies."

Chikunga emphasized the importance of adopting the Decade for African Women's Financial Inclusion and Gender Equality, 2020-2030. She pointed out that without access to finances, African women struggle with socio-economic progress and lack control over resources like land, businesses, and property.

She also noted that accessing markets remains a challenge for women in Africa, particularly in trade and global markets. Chikunga further said that the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement will create new opportunities for global trade and markets for women.

This agreement is crucial for women in South Africa to take advantage of the economic opportunities it offers for empowerment and wealth creation across the continent.