South African women are falling behind in the workplace as technology rapidly evolves, experts say. Despite being more financially responsible, women face a widening gender gap in pay and job access. According to the World Bank, at the current pace, full gender equality will only be achieved by the year 2158. While South Africa shows strong legal support for equality, real-life conditions tell a different story. Experts now warn that without urgent action, technology could deepen these divisions further.
Gender Equality: Legal Promise vs. Real Progress
South Africa scored 88.1 out of 100 on the World Bank’s Women, Business, and the Law index. This is higher than the global average of 78.9 in the 2023 report. The score reflects strong legal protections, like equal pay laws. But it does not measure how these laws are applied in real life.
In a government report released in November 2024, Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga noted progress in areas such as education, health, and political representation. However, she admitted that key economic gaps remain. “We still face big challenges,” she said, “especially in helping women enter and thrive in the workforce.”
Tech Is Moving Fast—But Not for Everyone
The rise of technology is creating more jobs, but many women are not gaining access to these opportunities. Fields like artificial intelligence, coding, and fintech are still dominated by men. This puts women at risk of being left behind as the digital economy grows.
Many tech-related roles require skills in science, engineering, or math. Women in South Africa are still underrepresented in these fields. Without better training and support, the gap will continue to grow.
The Gender Pay Gap Is Getting Worse
Financial services data adds another layer to the problem. According to Keri-Lee Edmond of Old Mutual Corporate Consultants, the gender pay gap in South Africa ranges from 20% to 40%. “The gap is not closing. In fact, it’s widening,” she said.
Even though more women are entering management roles, men still lead in total earnings and yearly raises. This means women are not just earning less today—they’re falling further behind over time.
Private Sector Representation Remains Low
While women have made gains in government roles, their presence in the private sector remains limited. Leadership positions, especially in tech and finance, are still mainly held by men.
Chikunga’s report calls for increased efforts to create a more inclusive economy. This includes training women for high-demand jobs and encouraging companies to promote equal opportunities at all levels.
The Cost of Inequality
The economic impact of gender inequality is massive. A report by McKinsey Global Institute shows that closing the gender gap could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. For South Africa, where unemployment is already high, empowering women could bring huge benefits.
Better gender balance leads to stronger business performance and faster economic growth. But these benefits can only be realized if women are given equal chances in education, training, and leadership.
What Needs to Change
Experts and officials agree that change must happen on multiple fronts:
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More STEM Education for Girls: Schools and universities must encourage girls to enter science, tech, engineering, and math fields.
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Stronger Workplace Policies: Companies should conduct regular pay audits and close unfair wage gaps.
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Better Childcare Support: Women often leave jobs due to lack of childcare. More flexible work policies can help.
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Tech Training Programs: Public and private partnerships can train women in digital skills to close the access gap.
A Wake-Up Call for Equality
Technology has the power to boost South Africa’s economy, but only if everyone can benefit. Today, the digital revolution risks deepening long-standing inequalities. Closing the gender gap—especially in pay and job access—is not just fair; it’s smart economics.
South Africa has the legal tools in place. Now it needs action, accountability, and innovation to ensure that no one is left behind.
