Abstract
Purpose of this paper: This paper reports on the findings of a needs
assessment study of South African (SA) Women-Owned Enterprises in
construction. The study was done in preparation for the rolling out of an
empowerment initiative in South Africa. The study builds on the lessons
learnt and recommendations from the ʻWomen-helping-Womenʼ study.
Design/methodology/approach: Relevant literature was reviewed. A
survey instrument was developed and professionally facilitated workshops,
supervised by stakeholders, informed the needs assessment.
Findings: Fair procurement, women friendly construction sites, a
construction bank and relevant career-aligned training with mentoring will
enable the respondents to transform their enterprises to be sustainable
multi-skilled independent entities that are able to construct the infrastructure
needed.
Research limitations: Findings are based on views from respondents in SA
registered with the Construction Industry development Board (CIDB) and
also with legitimate e-mail addresses.
Practical implications: Given the professionally facilitated workshops and
stakeholder involvement in the instrument developed from start to finish the
findings of the study proved to be reliable and valid and could be used for
similar interventions. Value of paper: Knowledge sharing for auctioning by government, the
building industry, development finance institutions and women associations
on the critical skills shortage, gender equity and empowerment added value.