Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Ms Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, has called for greater investment in women leadership, mentorship and empowerment during her keynote address at the inaugural Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Women Indaba, held virtually on 5 August 2026.
The Women Indaba brought together women officials from across the Department to reflect on progress made in advancing gender equality, discuss challenges affecting women in the workplace, and identify practical solutions to strengthen women’s participation in leadership and decision-making.
Reflecting on the significance of Women’s Month and the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings, the Deputy Minister reminded delegates that the women who marched fought not only against discriminatory legislation, but also for dignity, equality and the full participation of women in shaping South Africa’s future.
She said public servants have a responsibility to ensure that the constitutional values of dignity, equality and human rights are reflected in the Department’s workplace culture. She encouraged officials to assess whether sufficient opportunities have been created for women to lead, whether barriers to advancement have been removed, and whether workplaces are safe, respectful and supportive.
“This Women Indaba must not only be a platform for dialogue, but a catalyst for action. Let us leave here committed to strengthening leadership development, expanding mentorship opportunities and creating workplaces where every woman has the opportunity to grow, lead and succeed,” said Deputy Minister Ntshalintshali.
Quoting former President Nelson Mandela, she said, “Freedom cannot be achieved unless women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression.” She noted that while significant progress has been made, many women continue to face challenges at home, in society and in the workplace, making platforms such as the Women Indaba essential for meaningful dialogue and lasting change.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the Head Office Women’s Network has evolved into the Women Indaba, creating a national platform where women across DCS can share experiences, identify challenges and develop practical solutions. She called for greater investment in leadership development, mentorship programmes, succession planning and skills development to ensure that more women are prepared for strategic leadership roles within the Department.
Quoting former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, she said, “There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” She emphasised that investing in women strengthens the Department’s ability to deliver professional correctional services while contributing to a more inclusive and capable organisation.
National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale, also addressed the Indaba, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to creating opportunities for women to grow, lead and thrive. He emphasised the importance of removing barriers that hinder women’s advancement and fostering an environment where women can realise their full potential.
The opening day of the Women Indaba also featured presentations on financial intelligence for women by Momentum, workplace harassment and bullying by the Department of Public Service and Administration, and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) by the Department of Social Development. These sessions provided delegates with practical knowledge and tools to support both their professional growth and personal development.