DPWI Hosts Capacity Development Workshop for Women in the Built Environment

Article by Thokozani Ngema, Pictures supplied by IDT

18 March 2026

On Friday, 13 March 2026, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) hosted a Capacity Development Workshop for Aspiring and Emerging Women in the Built Environment in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. The workshop formed part of the Department’s activities to commemorate International Women’s Day and reaffirm its commitment to advancing the participation of women in the built environment sector.

The workshop aimed to empower aspiring and emerging women by providing valuable insights into opportunities, empowerment programmes, funding mechanisms, and support structures available within the construction and property sectors.

Organised by DPWI’s Gender and People with Disabilities Unit, the event brought together a number of key stakeholders and sector partners, including the Independent Development Trust (IDT), the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), and the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA). Their participation created a platform for engagement, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, while highlighting practical pathways for women seeking to grow and succeed in the built environment.

During the workshop, representatives from the various institutions delivered informative presentations outlining available opportunities across different areas of the built environment sector. Participants were also encouraged to take advantage of existing development programmes and support initiatives aimed at promoting women’s economic participation and professional growth.

The workshop forms part of DPWI’s broader efforts to drive transformation within the sector and ensure that women are equipped with the knowledge, resources, and networks needed to participate meaningfully in the built environment.

Empowering women in the built environment is essential for building an inclusive and sustainable future for the sector. Through initiatives such as this workshop, the Department continues to create platforms that enable women to access opportunities, build capacity, and contribute meaningfully to the growth and transformation of the industry.