Empowerment of women in the transport sector value chain: Lessons for policy and practice

Abstract

Based primarily on a focus group made up of representative voices of women in the transport sector value chain, the paper records progress and challenges in the sector to maximise the participation of women in the value chain, particularly in business. The findings are especially relevant for the implementation of policy and regulations such as the 2017 Preferential Procurement Regulations which, for example, prequalifies women (among other groupings) for at least 30% of public sector work that is subcontracted to designated groups. Much progress has been made in the procurement legislation. However, the participation of women in the transport sector value chain is far from mature. Reasons for this include diluted commitment by institution in both the public and private sectors, especially the private sector, to empowerment ideals. Furthermore, progress is not systematically measured and reported and therefore corrective measures are not readily identifiable. The absence of a critical mass of success stories also dampens traction. A comprehensive transport sector profiler is seen as critical to unlock opportunities. Organisational skills of non-governmental organisations also require strengthening in order for these organisations to prepare and mobilise the transport sector for much needed change.