Global Women's Chamber launched in Durban

South Africa has launched its first global women's business chamber with plans to set up offices around the world to connect women.

"It's not just another chamber. And it's not another shop talk. The Global Business Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a game changer because it connects women globally & locally to make a difference," founder Fawzia Peer, also an ANC National Executive Member, told IOL.

"This transcends politics because women are able to do that to effect change. This is not about politics; it's about women connecting the dots, paving the way for economic opportunities and supporting each other to change lives. It's been in the making for two years so I'm incredibly proud it finally happened in Durban," she said. 

Speaking at the launch, small business minister, Stella Ndabeni Abrahams welcomed the initiative.

"Any initiative which advances the economic status of women must be supported. We will not shy away from that commitment. We welcome this and will work with Fawzia and her chamber to change lives," said Abrahams.

Major obstacles facing women in South Africa continue to persist, despite collective efforts to address them. These include the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV), persistent economic inequalities such as gender pay gap and high unemployment, the burden of patriarchy and limited access to leadership. Child headed households remain to be mainly female affected with poverty also more prevalent in female headed households.

Asked if the chamber would take on these challenges, Peer said: "How else can we as women drive change if we don't recognise the barriers to change? We can't talk in boardrooms alone. Women are the architects of change, the chamber will have various committees and that includes social projects.

"As we grow the aim is to divert a percent of all our funds and membership fees to women led projects which will see tangible life changing results. Through this chamber, a first of its kind, the country's first business women’s chamber, we begin building a dynamic, inclusive community that doesn’t just advocate—but activates.

"One that elevates leadership across gender, geography, and generation. That's my vision," added Peer.