By Nomzamo Mnguni
To highlight the crucial role played by women in construction and the built environment, those in the sector met to as part of Women’s Month celebrations Durban’s Olive Convention Centre recently.
“This industry is still dominated by men, but as women we don’t receive enough support in the field. It is very important to value women and give them the opportunity to lead,” said Thembeka Mnisi – the president of the South African Women in Construction and Built Environment (SAWIC & BE).
Deputy Minister of Public Works, Sihle Zikalala, told those in attendance that he’s realised that women who have managed to enter the industry would be hindered by various issues that include payment delays, wage gaps and the lack of sustainable opportunities for small and emerging contractors.
“The construction sector remains dominated by men, especially white owned companies, whether in management or labour. Therefore, transforming the industry is quite important,” Zikalala said.
Mnisi said there are solutions for some of the problems highlighted by the deputy minister. “We also face protection issues and serious challenges that must be taken seriously. Government needs to act to prevent this pandemic of neglecting women in the industry,” added Mnisi.
Rosy Manikan, founder of Women on Fire Connect and Women of Fire Construction, said education and mentorship remain remain problem areas, especially in the rural areas. “There’s no structured education for women in construction, especially from schools. Not every learner will become a doctor, some can work with their hands in construction and thrive. We need to show young women that there are opportunities beyond being architects and civil engineers,” Manikan explained.
She added that more initiatives are needed to encourage women to enter the industry.
“Women are stronger than they think. They can work with their hands and minds. With encouragement, they can achieve whatever they put their minds to,” she said.
