Empowering women with financial literacy 

As International Women’s Day approaches, the conversation around empowering women with financial literacy takes centre stage in South Africa. Women-led households are more common in areas with low financial literacy, leaving many without the knowledge and resources to secure their economic futures, says Sandi Richardson, HR Executive at RCS. 

Did you know? 

• Women as financial pillars: Over 40% of South African households depend financially on women, yet many lack financial literacy. This leaves them vulnerable. 

• Breaking the cycle: Financially knowledgeable women raise financially literate children, creating stronger communities and driving economic growth. 

• Economic impact: Women who achieve financial independence invest in education, healthcare and entrepreneurship, tackling unemployment. 

• Barriers to financial literacy: Many women lack access to financial education on savings, investments and debt management. 

• Free financial education: Accessible online resources and community-driven initiatives, like WPDI, help women build financial knowledge. 

• Combatting financial abuse: Financial literacy helps women recognise and prevent financial abuse, securing their independence. 

• Smart financial habits: Budgeting, tracking expenses, and setting financial boundaries are key to long-term financial success. 

• A call to action: Empowering women with financial literacy strengthens families, communities and the nation. Women must take charge of their financial future. 

This International Women’s Day, the call to action is clear. Financial empowerment is within reach, but it requires a proactive approach. “By financially strengthening women, we strengthen families, communities, and the nation as a whole,” Richardson concludes.