South Africa’s political landscape often features bold promises, but one of the most influential voter groups—women—remains largely overlooked. Women make up 55% of the voter roll, as seen in the 2024 general election, yet political parties fail to engage them meaningfully or address their unique concerns. Prof. Collette Schulz-Herzenberg recently noted during a Daily Maverick discussion that gender politics in South Africa is underutilized. She argued that political parties are missing a powerful opportunity to connect with women, particularly working women and caregivers.
This neglect is surprising given the historic role South African women have played in shaping the country’s destiny. From the 1956 Women’s March against apartheid pass laws to the pioneering activism of leaders like Charlotte Maxeke and Albertina Sisulu, women have long been at the forefront of political change. Helen Suzman’s courageous fight for human rights in an apartheid-dominated Parliament and Helen Zille’s investigative journalism and governance reforms further highlight the enduring contributions of women leaders across generations. These trailblazers exemplify the strength and determination of South African women in challenging oppression and driving progress.
Today, this legacy of activism continues as women play a critical role in advocating for greater self-determination and striving to build a better future for their communities. Yet, despite their contributions, women’s most pressing issues—such as violence, workplace equity, and access to quality education—remain largely unaddressed by today’s politicians, revealing a glaring gap in political priorities.
The Everyday Challenges Facing Women and Children
Violence against women and children is one of South Africa’s most alarming crises. A woman is killed every three hours, and countless children experience abuse in their homes or schools. These shocking statistics show how unsafe many spaces remain for women and children, including the places where they should feel most secure.
Safety is only part of the picture. Economic pressures weigh heavily on women, especially those who are caregivers. The high cost of childcare, lack of flexible work options, and workplace discrimination make it harder for women to earn a stable income or achieve independence. Political parties often promise broad economic reforms, but they rarely propose specific measures to address these challenges.
Learning from International Examples
Globally, other countries provide valuable lessons on how to engage women voters effectively.
In the United States, women voters played a decisive role in the 2020 elections, especially as candidates addressed key issues such as parental leave, reproductive rights, and workplace protections. These policies resonated deeply with working and suburban women.
In Nordic countries like Sweden and Norway, gender-focused policies such as affordable childcare, generous parental leave, and workplace equity programs have not only supported women but also created stronger, more balanced societies. These policies are examples of what happens when governments prioritize issues that matter to women.
Even in developing countries like India, policies aimed at women have made a difference. Programs such as subsidies for cooking gas, designed to ease the burden on rural women, have been credited with shifting voter behavior and empowering women in their communities.
The Cost of Ignoring Women Voters
By neglecting women’s issues, South African political parties risk alienating the country’s largest voting bloc. Women who feel ignored or excluded may disengage from the political process altogether. Beyond elections, the failure to address gender-specific challenges slows progress for the entire nation. Women’s issues are not isolated—they intersect with broader problems such as unemployment, public safety, and education.
On the other hand, prioritizing women’s concerns could bring powerful social and economic benefits. Addressing violence, improving access to affordable childcare, and creating better work environments for women would uplift not just women, but their families and communities as well.
How Political Parties Can Respond
If South African political parties want to connect with women, they need to move beyond empty slogans. The first step is meaningful engagement—talking to women directly and learning about their needs. This can be achieved through community forums, partnerships with grassroots organizations, and regular outreach efforts.
Next, parties need to commit to real policies that make a difference in women’s lives. Affordable childcare, equal pay, workplace protections, and survivor support services are just some of the areas where focused action is urgently needed. These policies should be clear, measurable, and tied to specific outcomes.
Representation also matters. By promoting more women into leadership roles within political parties, these organizations can better reflect and respond to women’s priorities. This sends a strong message that women’s voices are being heard at the decision-making level.
Finally, ensuring the safety of women and children should be a central goal for all parties. Better enforcement of existing laws, investment in school and home safety programs, and community-driven violence prevention initiatives are critical steps toward achieving this.
Final Thoughts
South African women have always been powerful agents of change. But their influence is often underestimated or ignored by political leaders. By listening to women and addressing their concerns, political parties have the chance to win their trust and their votes. More importantly, they can help create a society that works better for everyone. Women’s voices are not just an electoral advantage—they are the key to building a safer, fairer, and more prosperous South Africa.
