As part of celebrating International Women’s Day, Durban University of Technology (DUT) Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment in partnership with Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) KZN Branch, the Department of Water and Sanitation, Umgeni-Uthukela Water, EW SETA, Universal Water Solutions and Borda SA co-hosted seminar to empower women Water sanitation and hygiene sector at the Coastlands Hotel on Friday, 8 March 2024.
The Deputy Minister Hon Judith Tshabalala was a guest speaker During the seminar and she also joined a panel discussion which included prominent women who are experts and professionals in the Water, sanitation and Hygiene ( WASH) Sector. The panel discussion was held under the slogan “Count Her In” and shared inspiring knowledge and wisdom to inspire women. The deputy minister together with the panellists discussed women’s challenges, especially in the water and sanitation sector, the water crisis, and economic empowerment.
Tshabalala expressed that although there is progress, there is still a lot to be done to achieve gender equality and equal opportunity for women and young girls, and that such platforms must not just be about celebrating success but instead be advocated to bring solutions to the adversities faced by women.
“This day is a reminder that gender parity is still far from being achieved. It is not just a day to celebrate the achievements of women, but also a call to action for gender equality, hereby encouraging reflection, advocacy, and action to continue breaking down barriers for women and girls around the globe. To further bring attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. It provides a platform for collective action and collaboration in advocating for women’s rights and empowerment,’’ said Tshabalala.
Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni who facilitated the panel discussion, shared that one of her concerns is the declining women percentage in the wash sector.
“There are statistics that say women’s percentage in the water and sanitation sectors is declining. We need to take it upon ourselves and do more to come up with solutions, assist, and try to prevent it from happening,” said Dr Mthombeni.
She also appreciated the organisations that made this seminar a success. ‘’We need to continue to work together, and women must change their mentality and accept themselves for who they are. Maybe we are the ones who exclude ourselves from opportunities,’’ concluded Dr Mthombeni.
Dr Preyan Arumugam-Nanoolal from WISA also expressed her gratitude to the guests and urged them to invite ordinary community members to such platforms to educate and make a difference in society.
“For future events, we know many of us have professionals in this sector, but I would like to encourage you to bring someone from the community or a child and bring them to these events so that they can be exposed to this sector at a young age,” said Dr Preyan.
Pictured: Attendees at the Women Empowerment Seminar.
Vukani Langa
