Guided by its vision of a South Africa free from poverty and unemployment, and its mission to mobilise resources for poor families and communities to establish and grow social enterprises, the NDA has continued to prioritise support for women-led initiatives. The first half of this year saw over R6.7 million directed towards women-led civil society organisations (CSOs). In total, 15 women-led CSOs benefited out of the 21 CSOs approved for funding, underscoring the Agency’s commitment to empowering women as catalysts of change.

Furthermore, women remain at the centre of NDA-supported cooperatives and community-driven enterprises, which not only generate livelihoods but also promote economic inclusion. Within the NDA’s staff complement of 168, women form the backbone of the organisation, with 112 employed across all levels, including at executive and management level. Additionally, of the 18 interns that are undergoing on-the-job training at the NDA, 12 of them are women.

Globally, evidence consistently shows that empowering women accelerates development. According to the United Nations, “when women work, they invest 90% of their income back into their families and communities,” compared to 35% for men. This multiplier effect highlights why placing women at the heart of social and economic programmes is indispensable for poverty eradication and sustainable growth.

This year’s national Women’s Month theme, “Women’s Socio-Economic Rights and Empowerment: Building Back Better for Women’s Improved Resilience,” is perfectly aligned with the NDA’s mandate. The Agency recognises that for South Africa to build resilience and thrive, women must be supported in their efforts to lead enterprises, cooperatives, and social development organisations.

“As the NDA, we know that women are not just beneficiaries of development -they are leaders, innovators, and drivers of sustainable communities,” said Mrs Susan Khumalo, NDA COO. “By placing women at the centre of poverty eradication, we are ensuring that our interventions build resilient households and communities that can break the cycle of dependency.”

The NDA calls on civil society, government, and the private sector to join hands in strengthening support for women-led small businesses, community-owned enterprises, and cooperatives. The inclusion of women at the heart of South Africa’s economy is not only a matter of equity but a prerequisite for sustainable development and national growth.

About the NDA

The National Development Agency is a public entity mandated to contribute to the eradication of poverty and its causes by granting funds to civil society organisations for development work, and by strengthening the institutional capacity of civil society organisations.

Issued by:

National Development Agency (NDA)

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Mr Lonwabo Ganelo