The role of transformational leadership in achieving gender equity in the Department of Health, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Gender equity has become one of the South African government’s priorities. South Africa has promulgated the Employment Equity Act no 55 of 1998 (EEA), with the purpose of promoting equal opportunities for both males and females. The act is also aimed at eliminating unfair treatment and discrimination of women in the workplaces. However, since 1998 when the EEA was introduced, not much has been done in trying to close the gap between men and women in terms of employment, particularly in terms of the upward mobility of women in the workplace. This study wanted to contribute in several ways in highlighting the issues pertaining to a gap that exists in female leadership research and gender based research. The aim of the study was to investigate the progress made by the Department of Health, Limpopo Province towards achievement of gender equity as well as finding out if the transformational leadership style can be one of the strategies that can be utilised in pursuing gender equity. The objectives of the study included, examining if the Department of Health in Limpopo is committed to addressing issues of gender equity as well as the importance of organisational transformation in relation to gender equity. Challenges faced by the department in its attempt to achieve gender equity in leadership positions were also probed. The study followed a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Qualitative and quantitative studies were done concurrently with equal weights. The study was conducted at the head office of the Department of Health, which is based in Polokwane, Mopani District Municipality hospitals, and Capricorn District Municipality hospitals. The results of the study show that the perception of managers and non-managers differ on the level of commitment of the organisation to gender equity as well as on the availability of programmes and policies to advance women. However, both managers and non-managers agree that transformational leadership should be considered in addressing gender issues. The study made several recommendations for the organisation, which include women and men in leadership positions to look at alternatives in order to enhance women empowerment, as well as the aspiring women to help themselves.