As part of its continued commitment to the empowerment of women in the South African economy, Anglo American is supporting the official launch of the South African Women Business Council of Co-Operatives (SAWBCC) which takes place today, at the Turbine Hall in Johannesburg.

The SAWBCC is a gender-responsive and autonomous co-operative which was voluntarily and systematically formed by women to promote common economic, social and cultural well-being, and to stimulate access to opportunities in the mainstream economy. The co-operative is making history as it is the first women tertiary Apex to be formed in South Africa and is strategically positioning women co-operatives to the highest level that they can become.

The organisation was established based on the understanding that co-operatives can be utilised as agents of change in economically emancipating women through poverty alleviation, and the promotion of financial and social inclusion.

During the event a number of distinguished speakers are set to serve as keynote panellists during sessions, including Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, Black Business Council president Ndaba Ntsele, and Anglo American South Africa executive director, Khanyisile Kweyama.

Ann Ngutshane, president of the SAWBCC notes that Anglo American’s support of this initiative will add immense value to the South African economic landscape.

"Anglo American’s support is critical for the launch of the SAWBCC. Together, we are breaking new ground in that it is the first time in the history of Co-operatives in South Africa that a big company like Anglo American is supporting the establishment of a women co-operative tertiary body. Anglo American is setting an example that all the large conglomerates should emulate."

Anglo American has an impressive track record in terms of Women empowerment, with 49% of the funding from its enterprise development arm, Zimele, having been directed towards female entrepreneurs from 2008 to the end of 2012. Further, as of the end of 2012, 25%of management positions in Anglo American were held by women, as well as nearly 7,042 mining jobs.

Anglo American executive director Khanyisile Kweyama concludes that the company’s support of the SAWBCC is linked to its overall philosophy.

"Anglo American is fully committed to defined transformation objectives, in which we embrace the challenge of adapting our business to reflect the social, economic and regulatory changes of the land. A central aspect of this philosophy is our efforts to make a real difference in the lives of women in South Africa, by helping to further their economic opportunities.

"We are therefore delighted to offer our full support to The South African Women Business Council of Co-Operatives, as the organisation’s model firmly aligns with our core objectives. Undoubtedly, the organisation will provide women with an economic voice, and empower them to contribute valuably to poverty alleviation, and the sustained economic growth of our country."

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