Work-family conflict and gender equality in South Africa

Zitha S Mokomane, Human Sciences Research Council

Recent studies have revealed an increase in the share of women in wage employment in the non-agricultural sector in South Africa. However, this increase does not necessarily indicate that the welfare of South African women is improving. Like in many parts of the developing world, even as they enter formal employment the women continue to be primarily responsible for the care of minor children and elderly members in their households and families. This paper illustrates how the prevailing socio-economic and demographic changes in the country have the potential to result in widespread work-family conflict among working women and, in the process, perpetuate gender inequality. Existing labour legislations and collective agreements are also critically explored to determine their gaps in addressing this issue.The paper concludes by discussing mechanisms that could facilitate working women to adequately balance their work and domestic roles.