KZN WOMEN URGED TO TRANSITION FROM SURVIVAL TO WEALTH CREATION

By Bongi Shozi.

• Addressing a women’s empowerment clinic, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga, said it was vital for women to create a society that does not depend on social grants.
• She addressed the Investor Pitch Business Clinic hosted by the Graca Machel Trust in Durban on 10 July 2025.
• The MEC also noted that the Department of Social Development had evolved from focusing on welfare to an institution that prioritises developmental interventions.

Women should actively pursue economic empowerment and shift away from depending on social assistance.

This was the message delivered by KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga on 10 July 2025 at the Investor Pitch Business Clinic hosted by the Graca Machel Trust at the Southern Sun Maharani Hotel in Durban.

MEC Shinga addressed a room filled with women entrepreneurs under the event’s theme of “Women Creating Wealth”.

The clinic was designed to provide women with practical skills, business tools, confidence, and networking opportunities to take their businesses to the next level.

In her keynote remarks, Shinga applauded the resilience and leadership of women in KwaZulu-Natal, highlighting their role in shaping communities.

“It is vital that we, as women, create a society that does not depend on social grants,” she said.

She pointed out that the Department of Social Development had evolved from being a welfare-focused institution to one that now prioritises developmental interventions.

Central to this shift is the Integrated Women Development Strategy, which aims to place women at the centre of economic growth initiatives across the province.

“Our department offers programmes that go beyond temporary relief. We empower women with real skills in garment manufacturing, culinary arts, and other trades at our development centres,” said Shinga.

“I encourage women to visit our district offices to find out more about these opportunities,” she added.

The business clinic also served as a platform for women-led businesses to showcase their work.

A vibrant exhibition allowed entrepreneurs to display their products and connect with investors and potential partners, making the event a dynamic hub of empowerment and opportunity.

The Graca Machel Trust’s initiative complements government efforts to promote inclusive growth and women’s economic participation — a message that MEC Shinga reinforced through her address.