16 Days of Activism: Economic empowerment as a shield against gender-based violence
As we observe the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Lamatsamo Holdings’ Empower Her Future campaign that took place in August 2024 demonstrated how economic empowerment serves as an important defence against vulnerability.
This initiative aligns with global evidence showing that financial independence reduces women’s exposure to abuse and exploitation.
Noluthando Mavuso, a finalist in the August campaign that was face-lifted with GI Advisory Group, exemplifies this transformation: “As a small business owner who is yet to get big, I will forever be grateful for the opportunity that Lamatsamo gave me and all the other women in business.”
Her journey from applicant to finalist shows how structured support can drive business growth and personal development.
Building communities through women’s economic empowerment
Reflecting the multiplier effect of women’s economic empowerment, Mavuso points out: “When you build a woman, you’re building the whole community.” The initiative offers a supportive ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can thrive. “Women do not have to go through hardships for them to succeed,” Mavuso emphasises, highlighting the importance of creating accessible pathways to economic opportunity.
The top three winners demonstrated how their businesses would “make a difference and impact in their communities and our country”, a link between women’s economic success and community development.
Mavuso’s aspiration that “this be not the last one” echoes the need for sustained investment in women’s economic empowerment as a cornerstone of GBV prevention.
As a result, Lamatsamo Holdings extends appreciation to all public and private sector partners who made this campaign a success. We invite mining houses and government departments to support our 2025 campaign as we continue to drive economic opportunities and business development for women entrepreneurs across South Africa.
Lunga Dweba
Independent Strategy Adviser
