ILO Pretoria hosts dialogue on women in leadership in the world of work

Pretoria, South Africa (ILO News) — In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Pretoria Office convened a high-level online dialogue bringing together influential women leaders from across Southern Africa to reflect on women’s leadership in the world of work and the barriers that continue to limit gender equality in decision making roles.

Observed annually on 8 March, International Women’s Day is a global moment to celebrate women’s achievements while also addressing persistent inequalities. The dialogue provided a platform for leaders representing workers, employers, government, parliament and the informal economy to share their experiences and insights on advancing women’s leadership across Africa.

The panel featured prominent leaders including Ms Zingiswa Losi, President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), Ms Tshepo Nkwadi, Deputy Permanent Secretary in Botswana’s Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs; Ms Pat Horn, advisor representing Nedlac, Community Constituency and International; and Dr Thandiwe Hlatswayo, from Business Eswatini.

The conversation opened by grounding the discussion in practical action, guided by key questions on what truly drives women’s advancement into leadership roles. Panelists were invited to share what truly shifts the “glass ceiling,” reflecting on their own career journeys and identifying workplace practices that have made a tangible difference. From transparent promotion systems and mentorship to stronger institutional accountability, speakers emphasized that intentional reforms not just policy commitments are key to building a sustainable pipeline of women leaders.

Another key theme focused on the future of work, as digitalization and artificial intelligence continue to reshape labour markets. Panelists explored how the gender digital divide particularly in access to technology, digital skills, and training risks widening existing inequalities. In this context, the role of business was highlighted as critical, with a call for targeted investments in digital literacy, skills development and inclusive workplace training to ensure women are not left behind.

The discussion underscored that advancing women’s leadership is not only a matter of rights and equality, but also critical for strengthening institutions, improving governance and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development.

The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration among governments, workers’ and employers’ organizations, and development partners to accelerate women’s representation in leadership across the world of work. The online session brought together over 100 participants from across Southern African countries, reflecting strong regional engagement and a shared commitment to advancing gender equality.