Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, has made advancing gender equality in sport a central focus during her tenure.

“The Deputy Minister has prioritised addressing gender inequality in sport, ensuring equitable pay and resource allocation for female athletes,” stated the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture on 17 October.

Mabe outlined her initiatives during a media briefing in Johannesburg alongside Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, marking their first 100 days in office since their appointment to the Government of National Unity (GNU) on 3 July 2024.

Her efforts include driving further transformation within the sports community, participating in the Cricket South Africa Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Indaba, attending the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, and engaging with global ministers at the International Film Week in Moscow.

“The department is finalising a comprehensive Women in Sport Policy Framework addressing various gender disparities, from participation and leadership to governance and visibility,” the Ministry added.

Mabe has also been actively involved in supporting women in boxing and overseeing the development of community sports facilities nationwide. Renovation projects are set to commence, starting in Limpopo province with upgrades in Moletji and Lephalale scheduled for late October 2024.

In the arts sector, Mabe aims to create conducive environments for artists, especially in underserved communities. She has advocated for civic and multipurpose community centres to serve as hubs for artistic expression and economic activity, aiming to stimulate job creation and economic opportunities.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the department’s strategic shift towards public-private partnerships to revitalise key programmes and enhance participation in sport, arts, and culture. A notable example includes her visit to the Enos Mafokate Equestrian Sport Centre in Soweto, exploring potential upgrades and partnerships to enhance facility offerings.

Furthermore, Mabe has lent support to initiatives honouring South Africa’s living legends and promoting its rich cultural heritage.

Deputy Minister Mabe’s proactive approach underscores her commitment to fostering gender equality and driving transformation across the sports and arts sectors, reflecting the GNU’s collective efforts towards inclusive governance and equitable opportunities for all.