South African Women in Construction (SAWIC) and Technology Absolute Procurement System (Taps) Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to help more women enter and thrive in the sector. This is a major step towards gender inclusivity in the construction industry.
An agreement signed this week aims to empower female entrepreneurs by expanding access to contracts, training, finance, and professional networks in an industry that remains predominantly male-dominated.
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Despite the historical male dominance in the sector, statistics from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) reveal that 48% of construction companies in South Africa are owned by women—a sign of growing momentum.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Johannesburg, SAWIC leaders praised President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent assent to the Public Procurement Bill, which will enforce fair, transparent, and competitive procurement practices across all spheres of government.
“This memorandum of understanding marks yet another milestone in our journey to empower women in the construction industry,” said SAWIC president Thembeka Mnisi.
“This is not just a partnership but a shared vision for growth, empowerment, and sustainability.”
She stressed that while government support is vital for women’s empowerment, private sector partnerships are essential for creating lasting and meaningful opportunities.
MoU establishes a framework for collaboration that will;
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Leverage Taps Group’s resources to support SAWIC members’ projects.
Enhance operational capabilities and skills development.
Provide Taps Group with access to SAWIC’s extensive member network.
Encourage financial growth through joint initiatives and equitable resource distribution.
Strengthen SAWIC and Taps Group’s impact at national and provincial levels.
Collaboration also includes:
Joint execution of projects to ensure profitability and resource optimisation.
Capacity-building programmes sponsored by Taps Group—to enhance the skills and capabilities of SAWIC members.
Efforts to secure larger market opportunities and contracts within South Africa and beyond.
Taps Online CEO Seeiso Mokoena described the agreement as the result of a long-standing collaboration with SAWIC, highlighting the challenges women face in the industry.
“Women have had it harder than men in construction. They are often undermined and overlooked, despite their skills and capabilities.”
Mokoena emphasised that women can manage large enterprises and senior roles but are frequently denied opportunities due to outdated perceptions.
“Women can multi-task—something many men struggle with. They have the knowledge and expertise, but they need platforms to showcase their abilities.”
He reiterated Taps Group’s commitment to supporting gender equality in construction, adding that this partnership represents a shared goal of creating an inclusive and fair industry.
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With stronger collaboration between the private sector and industry groups, the SAWIC-Taps partnership marks a significant move towards equal opportunities for women in one of South Africa’s most challenging industries.
As both organisations embark on this strategic collaboration, stakeholders hope it will pave the way for greater representation, financial growth, and leadership opportunities for women in the construction sector.
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