Addressing gender pay disparity in South Africa

Gender pay disparity continues to be a pressing issue in South Africa, with significant implications for women in the workforce. According to Vuyo Lee, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the global gender pay parity is projected to take 134 years to address, indicating the gravity of the matter. South Africa ranks poorly in terms of pay parity, standing at 111 out of 156 countries, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum study. This disparity is not just a financial issue but a driver of gender equality, impacting women's participation in the economy. The systemic problem begins from the start of a woman's career, influencing access to higher education and job progression. One of the key factors contributing to the gender pay gap is the roles in which women initially start their career. Many women begin in low-paying positions and face challenges in advancing to higher-paid roles. Representation also plays a crucial role, with only 14% of women being top earners due to their concentration in lower-level positions. Unpaid work, influenced by societal norms, further complicates the situation. The intersectionality of various issues, including social norms, access to entrepreneurship, skills development, and discrimination, makes resolving the gender pay gap a complex endeavor. To address this multifaceted issue, Vuyo Lee suggests a two-pronged approach involving legislative interventions and enforcement mechanisms. Gender-specific legislation focusing on skill development, entrepreneurship, and procurement can help broaden access for women. Additionally, existing laws such as the Employment Equity Act and the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act address discrimination and inequality but lack adequate enforcement. Regulators need to ensure that these laws are implemented effectively to combat gender pay disparity. The conversation around gender pay disparity extends beyond just being a women's issue; it is a societal concern that requires collaborative efforts. While women lead the discussions, legislative bodies and policymakers must adopt a gender lens to promote equity across industries. The recently proposed Companies Amendment Bill, which mandates social and ethics committees for companies, presents an opportunity for addressing the gender pay gap within corporate structures. Mandatory disclosure of gender pay discrepancies can incentivize companies to take action and drive positive change. In conclusion, addressing gender pay disparity in South Africa requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. By enhancing legislation with a gender-focused approach and ensuring enforcement, progress can be made towards achieving pay equity. Establishing platforms for open dialogue within companies and mandating transparency through disclosure can further propel the transformation needed to close the gender pay gap. With a collective commitment to change, the slow-moving clock of progress for women in the workforce can finally start ticking.