Abstract
Gender represents a confounding social construction within the multiple-layering of
relative disenfranchisement in the Sub-Saharan context of poverty. Class and race
play a significant role in the socialisation process, structures and policy frameworks
that contribute to the perpetuation of gender inequalities in broader society and within
different sport-related spheres. This paper draws on the conceptual insights of Marxian
and Feminist approaches, socialisation literature and the understanding of the social
inequality of condition, opportunity and capacity. It aims to reflect critically on the
lived-realities of women in post-Apartheid South Africa to illustrate how ideology, culture,
significant others, the availability of resources and democracy continue to shape the
lives of women and girls. A discussion of policy frameworks, from the global to the
local levels and experiences of how people “do gender,” are discussed. Main study data
entails that from a 10-year review (1994–2004) on the status of South African women in
sport and recreation and from three case studies linked to a sport-for-development 2010
FIFA World Cup legacy project. The latter entails the impact assessment of the GIZ/YDF
(German Development Corporation Youth Development through Football) programme
over a period of 7 years (2007–2014). Data were updated and re-interpreted in view
of current gender discourses and public debates around gender inequality. Patriarchal
ideology and hegemonic gender structures and practices continue to contribute to
barriers women and girls face to participate in traditionally male sports and for gaining
access to leadership positions. Enabling factors for addressing gender equality exist
within the policy frameworks and human agency, where male gate-keepers filter access
to gender inclusivity and empowerment. Gender inequality has taken the backseat
to social transformation in post-Colonial contexts and should feature prominently on
public agendas with mechanisms in place for monitoring and evaluating progress. It
necessitates structural and systemic reform beyond current piece meal offerings and
neo-Liberal initiatives to hold girls and women responsible for their own enlightenment
and full participation in sport and society.