The significance of transformational leadership in pursuing gender parity at Capricorn District Municipality

Abstract

This study is an investigation into the significance of transformational leadership and its effect in pursuing gender parity in organisations. The study looked into the processes that are in place and which are aimed at pursuing gender parity at Capricorn District Municipality. It further contended that issues pertaining to gender parity cannot be studied outside the confines of transformation in the organisations. Tyson (2015) argues that transformation in relation to gender parity will take several decades before its fruits are evident in organisations. Therefore, this implies that processes and practices related to transformation, have to be carefully monitored so as to achieve the desired gender parity results. Gender parity and transformational processes will have to be incorporated into policies of various organisations. Transformation has to be owned by the leadership of the organisations; it should not be perceived as a compliance mechanisms. Gender parity in many organisations continues to be one of the issues that everyone knows about, but does little to implement. Key findings in this research suggest that Capricorn District Municipality is faced with some challenges that stems from inadequate communication, mentorship programme as well as training and development with regard to processes and policies pertaining to gender parity. Majority of respondent cited no knowledge of such processes and policies within the organization. The following recommendations were drawn from the study: Strategies that will alleviate the challenges includes, change management, HR management, communication plan and leadership commitment, will have to be put in place to address some of the challenges Key words; gender parity, equality, equity, leadership, transformation, empowerment.