‘When women work, economies grow’
By: LESEGO POTO
The lack of gender equity has been a systemic issue in the business and investment
community throughout its existence, but, for some time now, there is growing evidence that pursuing gender equity as an investor will have positive benefits for the investment,
business, and society. Investment in women’s education and health, and attention to their
employment opportunities and empowerment, pays big dividends in terms of economic
development.
Women’s economic empowerment includes women’s ability to participate equally in existing markets; their access to and control over productive resources, access to decent work,
control over their own time, lives and bodies; and increased voice, agency and meaningful
participation in economic decision-making at all levels from the household to international
institutions. It is vital to invest in women in this developing world engaging women too would
mean that the generational curse will be broken, and individuals would be making a mark for
themselves.
Think of it, the more women work, the better the economy would grow. Women’s economic
empowerment would improve the productivity, it increases the economy diversification,
including income equality. For example, increasing the female employment rate of South
Africa to match that of well-developed economic countries like the United States could boost
the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of the country. Why then would women agree to be left
out? It is mainly because they are not considered to lead from past years of oppression, this
needs to be improved which is indeed the process the country is leading towards and is
however making a success at this time and age.
Education, upskilling and re-skilling women in different aspects of the economic growth is
very beneficial to women’s income-generation opportunities including their wellbeing.
Touching on, Women’s economic equality is good for business: it is evident that
companies greatly benefit from increasing employment and leadership opportunities for
women, which is shown to increase organizational effectiveness and growth. With
confidence, it is estimated that companies with three or more women in senior management
functions score higher in all dimensions of organizational performance.
In conclusion Women
outcomes, increased economic growth, and poverty reduction. However, women continue to face numerous challenges that obstruct their ability to contribute fully to society. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from individuals, communities, and governments. Which is making great progress thus far. Only by working together can we create a more just and equitable world for everyone.
