Women have always played an important role in society. Unfortunately, their contributions have not always been recognised or even worse, in the past it has in some cases even been ignored.
“This month we would like to honour the women at Afrikelp™ but would also wish to acknowledge all the contributions made by women in society. During the past couple of months, women have been playing an especially critical role in our communities during the COVID-19 outbreak. It is women who have to keep the families together and who not only had to put food on the table but also had to give special attention to the mental well-being of the household, the broader family and also society. In many instances they have abandoned all fears and taken on the role of caretakers without hesitation,” says Salo Minnaar, Commercial Director at Afrikelp.
In 1956, over 20 000 women of all races and ages from every corner of South Africa marched together towards the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Organised by the Federation of South African Women, the March was led by four brave women – Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, Sophie Williams and Lilian Ngoyi. They protested against the pass laws of that time that proposed even further restrictions on the movements of women.
Today perhaps women do not have to worry about movement restriction due to pass laws, but unfortunately, women still do not have a free pass to go where they want to whenever they want to. Due to gender-based violence and crime women often still fear for their lives.
In a celebration of women this month, female employees of Afrikelp were asked to share their views on the role women play in the workplace, at home and in broader society.
When asked, what they, as women, would like to change regarding how women are seen, handled or viewed in society, the same issues that have been mentioned over many decades were still mentioned: in general, they wish for equal opportunities, want to be respected, valued and appreciated.
“At Afrikelp we offer equal career opportunities. We belief that gender equality at the workplace can contribute both directly and indirectly to support and improve gender equity in our communities and help to build a society based on respect. We wish to ensure that we source and appoint the best talented and suited people for a specific role in the business, irrespective of gender. Once we have these individuals on board, we want to ensure that they are looked after, treated fairly, can develop, are well remunerated, and remain engaged, and motivated,” Salo Minnaar said.
Safety remains a high priority and a concern for many women. Endless media reports of rape and gender-based violence support their fears. “I would love to be able to walk fearlessly down a street”, demonstrates how this basic human right is being violated in society.
“A safe and protected environment at work is high on our agenda. We believe all women deserve a life free from violence,” says Salo.
“Women perform many roles daily. They are not only our colleagues but also wives and partners, home administrators, mothers, sisters, and friends. In many cases they are the sole providers for their families while they still have to look after the social and mental health of their families and thus in these diverse roles, play an enormously important role in the socio-economic development of society.”
Afrikelp supplies a concentrated liquid biostimulant containing a natural growth hormone, auxin, in the agricultural sector. Plants are treated with this liquid seaweed extract to enable them extract nutrients from the soil more efficiently. Through its sister company, Taurus, the company also provide dry kelp for fertilizing, horticulture, and compost tea. Through these 100% natural and sustainable, low-carbon impact products, the company makes a huge contribution towards agriculture and food security, as well as the general well-being of millions of people.
“At Afrikelp we value the contributions made by all women in our company. Women often bring fresh perspective and unique experiences to the table and use their experiences to improve productivity levels. Their skills and expertise are essential to our company and our success. We not only want to contribute towards a healthy agricultural production environment but wish to create a safe and appreciative working environment for the women in our company.”
Leave A Comment