by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE MTN SA Foundation has reinforced its commitment to women’s empowerment in the technology sector with the launch of the fourth edition of the MTN Women in Digital Business Challenge, a R1 million initiative designed to accelerate the growth of women-owned enterprises.
At the launch event in Johannesburg, ten finalists were announced, each securing R100 000 in working capital along with structured mentorship to scale their technology-driven businesses.
“They now form part of a growing network of 30 women-owned enterprises that, since 2022, have not only sustained but expanded their operations while contributing to South Africa’s digital economy,” said Arthur Mukhuvha, General Manager of the MTN SA Foundation.
Winners were selected by a panel comprising representatives from MTN, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), and programme partners Hodisang Dipeu Holdings (HDH) and Datacomb Development Hub (DDH).
Government support for the initiative was underscored by the presence of Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. She stressed that women’s participation in ICT was no longer optional but a necessity for inclusive digital growth.
“Unlocking the full potential of women as innovators and entrepreneurs is key to building a dynamic and equitable digital economy,” she said.
Since its inception, the challenge has attracted significant investment, with R4 million injected into women-led enterprises.
Yet challenges persist: while women represent 51 percent of South Africa’s population, they account for less than 25 percent of the tech workforce.
By bridging this gap, MTN and its partners aim to not only empower individual entrepreneurs but also strengthen South Africa’s position as a digital innovation hub.
– CAJ News