By Bahle Gama
Women have historically faced greater barriers than men when it comes to fully participating in the economy. Across geographies and income levels, disparities between men and women persist in the form of pay gaps, uneven opportunities for advancement, and unbalanced representation in important decision-making.
The Rockefeller Foundation says only 21 women are at the helm of Fortune 500 companies. Despite this, the organisation says women bring different perspectives and approaches to business, resulting in a more inclusive workplace and often better performance for the company.
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The lack of inclusion of women in key positions is a phenomenon witnessed globally. To address the challenge, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Pholile Shakantu has launched the Women Corrections Officers Network, Eswatini Chapter.
Minister Shakantu stated that the establishment of the network for women in corrections will help the country in developing female talent in previously male-dominated environments like correctional services.
This is as per the ministry’s mandate to have a minimum of 30 per cent of women in decision-making positions.
“Today we are launching a forum for women correctional professionals to equip them to be better leaders and service providers in their profession,” she said.
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She stated that the forum will provide women in Corrections with a networking platform where they will receive mentoring and training designed to meet their unique needs in the profession and beyond.
According to the minister, the forum will also coordinate and research Correctional or Prisons female officers. This includes assessing the readiness of women correctional officers to participate in peacekeeping missions and further raise awareness and understanding of the work of the Network.
The forum will also educate leaders and policymakers about the important attributes that women bring to correctional services and peacekeeping missions like collaboration, communication, and empathy.
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“The forum will also equip officers with practical life skills like financial literacy, estate planning, personal management skills and career planning,” she said.
The minister extended her appreciation to all stakeholders and presenters who have delivered insightful and thought-provoking presentations improving personal management skills.
“Correctional Services has made remarkable progress in promoting women, not only by ranks but through equipping them with various leadership skills,” said Shakantu.
She added that the network being launched will enhance the good work that the Commissioner General and the leadership is doing already.
