logo
Nedbank spotlights gender pricing bias, encourages SA women to shop mindfully

Nedbank spotlights gender pricing bias, encourages SA women to shop mindfully

SowetanLIVE12-05-2025
'Our bold new Buy Men's campaign is about raising awareness about the everyday ways in which women are financially disadvantaged, not just in wages but in how they are expected to spend,' says Khensani Nobanda, group executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank.
'Women should not be penalised simply because products are marketed differently based on gender; and when a woman has to pay more for basic products, the simple fact is that she is being systematically disadvantaged.'
Nedbank's NedFinHealth Monitor Report shows that women in this country demonstrate significant financial resilience through their ability to manage debt, pay bills on time, and plan for the future — often better than their male counterparts. Women also tend to be better savers and more cautious borrowers than men.
However, their efforts to stretch their earnings are undermined by pricing disparities that make basic goods and services more expensive for them than for their male counterparts. Nobanda points out that this highlights the unfair reality that South African women are expected to do more with less.
'The Buy Men's campaign encourages South African women to make more informed purchasing decisions and consider choosing men's products when they offer the same functionality at a lower cost,' says Nobanda. 'By actively comparing prices and challenging gender-based pricing, women can achieve greater control over their spending.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Government finalising support package for companies vulnerable to US tariffs
Government finalising support package for companies vulnerable to US tariffs

The Citizen

timean hour ago

  • The Citizen

Government finalising support package for companies vulnerable to US tariffs

The government says it is finalising a support package for companies, producers and workers affected by the tariffs on South African exports to the United States (US). This as the Trump-led administration stands firm on imposing a 30% tariff on local exports. Zululand Observer reports that President Cyril Ramaphosa said, while they continue to engage the US on the subject, a support package, to be detailed at a later stage, will be in place to assist those vulnerable to the reciprocal tariffs. 'The reciprocal tariffs have been imposed by the US on a significant number of its trade partners and South Africa has not been spared. South Africa will continue negotiating with the US regarding the 30% tariff announced by the US, which will come into effect on or after 12:01 eastern daylight time, seven days after August 1,' said Ramaphosa. He said all applicable exceptions published in the previous US Executive Order are set to remain in force. These exceptions covered products such as copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, certain critical minerals, stainless steel scrap and energy and energy products. 'South Africa and US trade relations are complementary in nature, and South African exports do not pose a threat to US industry. Importantly, SA exports to the US contain inputs from the African continent and contribute to intra-Africa trade. 'South Africa will continue to pursue all diplomatic efforts to safeguard its national interests. It is important that as a country, we keep our people at work and our companies producing some of the high-quality products destined for many parts of the world,' said Ramaphosa. He said they are exploring alternative markets as part of a diversification strategy in hopes of creating resilience of the country's economy. An export support desk has also been established to provide updates on development and provide advisory services to exporters. 'The details are to be published by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition on its website,' said Ramaphosa. Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. Read original story on

Prasa revises fare structure after public outcry
Prasa revises fare structure after public outcry

IOL News

timean hour ago

  • IOL News

Prasa revises fare structure after public outcry

Prasa's revised fare structure aims to provide affordable rates for South African commuters, following significant pressure from trade unions and community groups. Image: Picture: David Ritchie The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) has made significant changes to its fare structure in response to intense objections from trade unions, commuter groups, and civil society organisations, just before the planned fare increase. This follows days of escalating pressure, with the United Commuters Voice (UCV) announcing that the new fares will now offer more affordable rates for working-class commuters, ensuring better access to public transport. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) was among those that voiced concern ahead of the increase, calling for fare adjustments to be tied to inflation and warning that steep hikes would alienate commuters still reeling from the high cost of living. 'While Cosatu welcomes the huge improvements Prasa has made to its infrastructure as well as the rollout of the new trains, the federation believes the proposed ticket price hike is high and will be burdensome to commuters who are already battling to cope,' said Tony Ehrenreich, Cosatu deputy parliamentary coordinator. The federation argued that Prasa should use this period to rebuild public trust by positioning itself as the primary transport option for the working class. 'To achieve this, the federation urges Prasa to limit the fare increase to the prevailing inflation rate,' it said. The new Prasa fares that came into effect on Friday. Image: Prasa It also cautioned that a sharp increase could reinforce negative perceptions from the past when Prasa was known for mismanagement and unreliable service. Instead of driving up ticket costs, Cosatu recommended attracting more passengers to improve revenue. 'Prasa should steer clear of implementing a price increase that will change the cost structure of rail transport fees,' Cosatu said. 'While mindful of the significant investment in infrastructure, the rail agency should aim to recoup costs by swelling the number of commuters rather than relying solely on increased fare contribution.' Cosatu added that any fare increases above inflation should only be implemented after public transport subsidy policies are finalised through Nedlac. UCV, which led coordinated objections with support from commuters, labour, and community groups, confirmed that Prasa has now backed down from its initial fare plan. 'The fare increase, originally scheduled for full implementation on 1 August 2025, has now been adjusted downwards to reflect more affordable rates that take into account the financial strain on low-income commuters,' said UCV National Chairperson Paul Soto. 'We thank all stakeholders who stood in solidarity with us against the initially proposed fare hikes that were threatening affordability and access to public transport,' Soto said. 'Your voices have made it clear that decisions affecting the poor must be made in consultation with the key stakeholders.' The new structure includes lower monthly ticket increases than those originally communicated, and discounts for school children, military veterans, and senior citizens. • Monthly ticket increases have been scaled down. • Pensioners and military veterans will retain their 50% off-peak discount• Schoolchildren in full uniform will receive a 50% discount at all times. • A 40% off-peak discount remains in place for general commuters travelling between 9am and 2pm. Prasa said the updated fares had been approved by the Minister of Transport and noted that this was its first fare adjustment in 10 years. 'Despite these adjustments, rail remains South Africa's most affordable public transport mode,' Prasa stated in its official announcement. The agency confirmed that the amendments were made after identifying discrepancies in the original fare table and following feedback from commuter stakeholders. It said the changes would support improved service delivery, safety, and reliability across the Metrorail network. Both Cosatu and UCV reiterated their commitment to advocating for an affordable, safe, and reliable public transport system. Cosatu also signalled its readiness to help fast-track policy processes at Nedlac that ensure fare increases are equitable and rooted in commuters' lived realities. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus

A call to action: Portfolio committee can address accountability in South African football
A call to action: Portfolio committee can address accountability in South African football

IOL News

time3 hours ago

  • IOL News

A call to action: Portfolio committee can address accountability in South African football

One of the primary challenges facing the game lies within the South African Football Association (SAFA), which has been notably reluctant to take responsibility for the ongoing turmoil. This lack of accountability has not only stalled reform initiatives but has also contributed to a climate of distrust among stakeholders, particularly the corporate sector. The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture holds a critical key to unlocking the transformation needed in this beloved sport, provided its members engage thoroughly with the issues at hand and make informed decisions. While the potential for greatness exists within the country's talent and passionate supporters, deep-seated issues continue to hinder progress. As the appointed overseers of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, they are tasked with holding vital discussions on budget allocations, policy scrutiny, and performance evaluations, aiming to ensure that the department meets its mandate effectively and is held accountable for its actions. The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture can play a crucial role in revitalising South African football, and it must not be overlooked. To effect meaningful change, members of the Portfolio Committee must undertake diligent research on the myriad of issues plaguing South African football. They have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders from various levels to create a holistic understanding of the problems faced by the sport. This comprehensive engagement is vital; informed commentary and relevant questions can guide discussions in a direction that fosters responsibility and improvement. Their engagement must not merely scratch the surface. There is an urgent need to dissect the intricacies of governance structures within SAFA, demand transparency in operations, and call for a strategy that reinvigorates the passion of South African fans. Engagement must extend into addressing youth development, grassroots initiatives, and infrastructural support – elements that will secure the future of football in South Africa. Significantly, it's the corporate world's participation that could rejuvenate the sport financially and operationally. However, sponsors and investors are unlikely to commit funds so long as there is a perception of inefficiency and a lack of accountability within SAFA. A revitalised football association, one that embraces reform and responsibility, would pave the way for constructive partnerships that could elevate South African football to new heights. The Portfolio Committee can play a transformative role, provided it approaches its mandate with the seriousness and diligence it deserves. A recent parliamentary session raised a host of concerns surrounding SAFA's choices and salaries in coaching appointments across national teams. The South African Football Association (SAFA) finds itself navigating turbulent waters, facing heightened scrutiny over its financial constraints and coaching appointments amid a recent parliamentary session. Issues surrounding operational efficacy and personnel decisions are at the forefront of discussions, particularly concerning coaching roles across national teams. On several occasions, SAFA proudly announced that all coaching positions for the national female teams have been filled exclusively by South African women. SAFA President Danny Jordaan said parliament was highly pleased by this, asserting that the decisions reflect a commitment to empowering local talent. It would seem that the committee was rubber-stamping SAFA's act of prioritising nationality over coaching pedigree, and that undermined the potential for optimal performance. The coaches of female national teams are there firstly because they are women. This focus on gender may undermine teams' competitive edge. As SAFA continues to address its financial pressures, the path forward will undoubtedly require vigilance and a fine-tuned strategy that prioritises both inclusivity and high standards of coaching capability. The committee members should have asked whether these appointments are truly merit-based. Proponents of meritocracy contend that an ideal coaching situation requires a careful balance of nationality and qualifications to ensure optimal performance on the international stage. The fear among various stakeholders is that female coaches are being appointed primarily for their gender rather than their coaching acumen.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store