KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli says the Provincial Government is making significant strides towards advancing the lives of women and putting them at the forefront of economic mainstream.

During the State of the Province Address the Premier announced that within the first 100 days in office he would unveil the KwaZulu-Natal Women Advancement Fund (KZNWAF).

The KZNWAF is a pioneering initiative designed to empower and support women entrepreneurs in the Province by addressing the unique challenges they face in business, such as lack of funding, limited support, gender bias, and access to markets which all result in exclusion from the mainstream economy. The fund will provide women with financial resources, mentorship, and business development services.

“We are excited to be launching this fund which is led by the Office of the Premier and is a result of engagements with the Private Sector and leading women, who saw a need to empower and develop other women. We appreciate the partnership between Government and the Private Sector. This partnership will support our vision of ensuring that women do not remain disenfranchised, but they become active participants in our economy,” said Premier Ntuli.

During the launch the Premier will unveil the private sector partners who collaborated with government to support women entrepreneurs.

This launch will provide a platform to connect visionary women entrepreneurs with corporate and government leaders, promoting long-term investments, collaboration, and innovation. It will be held under the theme “Igniting Her Future: A Catalyst for Economic Empowerment"

Various women entrepreneurs will speak about their business journeys through a panel discussion. About 15 women-owned businesses chosen from across the province will exhibit their products.

The launch of the KwaZulu-Natal Women Advancement Fund will take place as follows and the members of the Media are invited to cover the event.

Date: Friday 30 August 2024
Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC Durban
Time: 09h00

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For more information contact Head of Provincial Government Communication Mr Bongi Gwala on 072 793 4757 or Premier’s Media Liaison Officer Lindelani Mbatha 061 499 0774 or Joseph Cubai 060 534 4187
ISSUED BY KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT