Developing a strategy for creating a sustainable pool of women leaders in the Mpumalanga Provincial Government

Abstract

The study proposes a strategy for the creation of a sustainable pool of women leaders in the Mpumalanga Provincial Government. The theoretical bases for the study are the theoretical frameworks associated with Public Administration, Gender and Leadership within the context of the Public Service. The study is qualitative and has utilised a triangulation of methods that include literature review, self-administered semi-structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews for the collection of data. The unequal representation of women and men leaders in the Mpumalanga Provincial Government necessitated the need to conduct a study that could assist in ensuring that women leaders are sustainably available for higher leadership positions. The study identified that there is a supportive regulatory framework though not adequately implemented, reported upon, monitored or evaluated. Furthermore, the study identified challenges such as the non-supportive work environment, masculine organisational culture, culture and patriarchy, unequal identification and advancement of women leaders and compensation hampering the development of a sustainable pool of women leaders. The study proposes a strategy where focus is placed on implementing the regulatory framework adequately, establishing a supportive work environment, reviewing and creating synergy between human resource planning and human resource development and implementing both targeted training for women leaders as well as offering a mentoring and coaching programme in support of women’s leadership development. These focus areas are to be dealt with in collaboration of partners and in consultation with the relevant stakeholders to ensure the creation of a sustainable pool of women leaders