Beyond the glass ceiling: Women in eThekwini reshaping leadership

ACROSS South Africa and around the world, women continue to navigate landscapes marked by systemic barriers, unconscious bias and entrenched stereotypes.

- KIM MAKHATHINI

Whether in boardrooms, council chambers, classrooms, or construction sites, the journey to recognition and representation remains uphill for many.

This Women’s Month, we honour the boldness, resilience, and impact of women who refuse to be confined by these limitations. We celebrate those who rise, not just for themselves, but for others. And in doing so, we reflect on the work that still lies ahead.

At eThekwini Municipality, we are proud to be part of this movement for change. While the journey is ongoing, we acknowledge the strides we have made in transforming the status quo, particularly in addressing gender imbalances in our workforce and leadership structures. Years ago, women were scarcely represented in senior management roles within the municipality.

Today, we are seeing a steady, albeit modest, increase in the number of women occupying strategic positions. Currently, approximately 688 female employees hold management roles ranging from middle to top management, specifically within task grades 14 to 25. This progress is no accident.

It is the result of deliberate policies, targeted programmes, and a growing institutional commitment to employment equity.