Barriers Inhibiting Women’s Progression to Leadership Positions within KwaZulu-Natal Municipalities was the title of eThekwini Municipality’s Senior Manager of Management Services and Master of Commerce in Management graduate Ms Sibongile Mfungula’s study.
‘Although women have made unprecedented strides in climbing the ranks of middle management, they are still less represented in senior leadership positions, particularly in local government which includes municipalities. As a woman who aspires to progress to senior leadership roles, I was curious about the factors contributing to this,’ said Mfungula.
Supervised by Professor Thokozani Nzimakwe, the study found that eThekwini Municipality’s organisational culture and climate support gender prejudices that favour men.
‘Other factors identified were associated with gender stereotypes that perpetuate traditional roles and functions, which creates unbalanced opportunities and expectations of what women can and cannot do,’ said Mfungula.
‘The study also recommends measures to ensure that gender transformation occurs with greater speed to enable women to advance to top management roles. These include change management programmes, close monitoring of gender policies, empowerment of women, and redress of political interference.’
The mother of two whose children are both registered for undergraduate degrees at UKZN is proud to be leading by example.
‘When my son, Vuyo and daughter, Lwandile see me investing time and energy in my studies, they understand the value of dedication and discipline. Bear in mind that actions speak louder than words. Seeing me studying at my age while I’m working helps them understand that learning and personal development are lifelong endeavours,’ she said.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini