South Africa’s construction sector is undergoing a transformative shift, as highlighted at the 2025 ERWIC Awards held on 14 August at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg.
The minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson announced that over 54,000 jobs were created in the past year through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), reflecting a 4.6% increase in employment.
The awards, hosted by the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb), celebrated the resilience and leadership of women who are redefining the industry both in boardrooms and on building sites.
“Our goal as a department and my goal is to advocate and equip women to compete in the open market and win, because they are capable, qualified and competitive,” said Minister Macpherson. “Every project completed creates employment, stimulates local suppliers and leaves behind infrastructure that enables further growth. When women lead and succeed in construction, those benefits only multiply further.”
Now in its sixth year, the ERWIC Awards have become a powerful platform for recognizing women who challenge long-standing stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Their achievements reflect a broader shift in the industry one that values professionalism, competence, and leadership beyond gender or race.
The 4.6% rise in job creation is more than a statistical uptick; it signals a strategic reform in how public works are approached. The EPWP has moved away from a welfare-based model toward a developmental framework, with recruitment reforms aimed at building sustainable employment pathways.
This evolution is particularly significant in a sector that contributes over R130 billion annually to South Africa’s GDP and supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods.
Globally, the economic case for gender empowerment is compelling. McKinsey estimates that advancing gender equality could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.
South Africa’s efforts to integrate women into infrastructure development not only reflect social progress but also position the country as a leader in inclusive growth.
The impact is already being felt. A more diverse workforce brings fresh perspectives and stronger project outcomes. Job creation stimulates local economies and supports small suppliers. And visible female leadership inspires the next generation of women in STEM and skilled trades.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the ERWIC Awards serve as a reminder that empowerment is not just a moral imperative it’s a strategic advantage.
Read Also:Women Contractors Take the Lead in SA’s Growth Boom – Jaina News
South Africa’s Labour Market Faces Powerful Q2 Shockwaves – Jaina News
South Africa’s Manufacturing Surges: R290 Billion Sales Boom – Jaina News
