By Mandla Mpangase

As South Africa marks the 70th anniversary of the historic Women’s March to the Union Buildings, the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) is honouring the women of 1956 by helping more women gain a foothold in South Africa’s industrial economy.

This year’s Women’s Day theme, “Empowered women empower the nation”, resonates strongly with TASEZ’s work in creating jobs, developing skills and opening opportunities for women-owned businesses.

The growth of TASEZ has created thousands of employment opportunities. Women accounted for 32% of the permanent jobs created during Phase 1, while women also benefited from employment opportunities generated during construction.

Women-owned businesses have also gained opportunities through TASEZ’s procurement and Enterprise and Supplier Development programmes. These initiatives are helping small businesses build capacity, access markets and become part of the automotive value chain.

For women entrepreneurs, entering the automotive industry can provide a platform to grow beyond small-scale operations and build sustainable businesses. TASEZ’s support of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) is therefore an important part of broadening participation in an industry that has traditionally been dominated by larger companies and, in many areas, by men.

Skills development is another key part of this work. Through the TASEZ Training Academy and partnerships with training and educational institutions, the zone is helping young people acquire skills that match the needs of the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Giving women access to these opportunities can help them enter technical and industrial careers and compete for jobs in a growing sector.

The economic impact reaches beyond the workplace. Women who secure employment, build businesses or develop new skills can support their families, employ others and contribute to their communities.

That makes economic empowerment an important part of the legacy of the Women’s March.

In 1956, more than 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings to challenge laws that restricted their freedom. Their action demonstrated the power of women to organise, lead, and demand change.

Seventy years later, women continue to shape South Africa – this time through their participation in the economy.

At TASEZ, that means creating more opportunities for women to become workers, entrepreneurs, suppliers, professionals and leaders in the automotive sector.

The message of Women’s Day remains as relevant today as it was in 1956: when women have the opportunity to succeed, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. Empowered women help build stronger families, businesses, communities and a stronger nation.