Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi emphasized the significance of International Women’s Day as a pivotal moment to reignite a revolution of women dedicated to building a public service that truly serves all South Africans, aligning with this year’s theme: “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment.”
Addressing the departmental International Women’s Day event at Batho Pele House on March 10, 2025, Minister Buthelezi stated, “Being a woman is not a limitation but a force of nature.” He highlighted the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal corporate and economic landscape and urged them to recognize their inherent strength and leadership potential.
“Without your leadership as women, without your vision and resolve, the promise of an ethical, effective, and people-cantered public service would remain an empty ambition,” he said. He pledged that this commemoration should catalyze women who will not merely request a seat at the table but will lead the way in creating a public service that serves everyone.
Reflecting on the progress made since the dawn of democracy, the Minister expressed concern over the persistent gender inequality in economic opportunities and leadership representation. He cited alarming statistics: women hold only 35% of positions on the Boards of Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)-listed companies and represent just 11% of the total workforce in the construction sector, largely due to stereotypes and cultural biases that view construction as a male-dominated field.
Encouragingly, he noted that the representation of women in senior management positions within the public service is relatively better at 45.62%, compared to 54.52% for men. However, he emphasized the need to strive for 50% representation, pointing to the 44.8% of women in the National Assembly as evidence that progress is achievable when there is commitment.
“Although we have achieved much, this agenda must not rest solely on the government’s shoulders; all, particularly women collectively must embrace it,” he asserted. “Gender equality must be a cause that every woman rallies behind—not just for personal gain, but for the broader transformation of our society.”
Minister Buthelezi acknowledged the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa and said it is a betrayal of the Constitution and shared humanity. He highlighted the government’s introduction of critical legislation to protect survivors of GBV, enhance police responses, and enforce stricter penalties for perpetrators. New sexual offenses courts have also been established to expedite these cases. Additionally, the department has launched a Policy on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment and Violence in the Public Service, aimed at creating a safe, respectful, and equitable environment for all employees, particularly women.
He addressed the need for unity among women, stating, “Too often, we witness jealousy, competition, and a tendency to undermine rather than uplift each other.” He called for inclusive empowerment that transcends self-serving motives, emphasizing that division often starts within homes and workplaces and spreads outward.
Minister Inkosi Buthelezi reflected on the legacy of powerful women who shattered ceilings and redefined leadership throughout history. “Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela was never reduced to simply being a woman in her fight against oppression. She rose because of her character, conviction, and courage to stand for what was right.” He emphasized that her story is a testament to women’s unique capabilities, which exist in every woman present today. “Will you tap into that power or allow the world to convince you otherwise?”
He cited other historical figures, such as Queen Nandi of the Zulu Kingdom, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Cleopatra of Egypt, and Margaret Thatcher, noting that these women did not wait for permission to lead; they seized the moment and defined their own paths.
Taking a leaf from these women of history, he stressed the importance of addressing unnecessary competition not just between men but also among women, which has far-reaching implications in workplaces.
Minister Inkosi Buthelezi stressed the importance of recognizing that leadership is not about competition but about collaboration and mutual respect. He expressed concern over the culture of bullying and abuse of power within institutions, noting that some women managers misuse their authority to undermine and discredit their team members. “Such behaviour will not be tolerated,” he warned, insisting that those who exploit their power must be held accountable.
He urged women to embrace their inherent strength and reject perceptions that reinforce gender inequality. “Let this International Women’s Day be a turning point—a moment when you decide to lead boldly, shatter every glass ceiling, and build new ones for those who will come after you.”
As he concluded, he reiterated the importance of stepping into leadership roles with confidence, stating, “The future of public service awaits your leadership. You have within you all it takes to redefine leadership in government and to build a legacy of service that speaks for generations to come.”
