On 27 March 2025, the Directorate of Systems and Policies, under Unisa’s Department of Leadership and Transformation (DLT), hosted a seminar on Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE).

From left: Vusi Mahlangu (Director: Risk and Compliance), Adv Lindiwe Madonsela (Senior Manager: B-BBEE Commission, Department of Trade and Industry), Thakani Masuka (Supply Chain Management), Sophy Mabaso (Sign language interpreter: ARCSWiD), Dr Masentle Lengane (Acting Director: Systems and Policies), Prof Grace Khunou, (Executive Director: Department of Leadership and Transformation), Bridgette Ngobeni (Employment Equity Officer: Department of Leadership and Transformation) and Donald Khulong (B-BBEE Specialist: Black Forum SA)

Facilitated by Bridgette Ngobeni from the DLT, the theme of the seminar was Rethinking Systems and Policies for Substantive Transformation at Unisa – the significance of B-BBEE for Effectual and Sustainable Transformation.

The seminar was based on the importance of B-BBEE compliance for the university to facilitate equal access and ensure inclusivity for designated groups and persons with disabilities. The B-BBEE framework advocates for equitable economic participation, social justice and equal access to employment, education and training, among others.

The aims of the seminar were to

1. highlight the importance of B-BBEE for substantive and effective transformation at Unisa.
2. identify key areas where B-BBEE can enhance institutional practices and social impact.
3. promote collaborative efforts among stakeholders to enhance B-BBEE alignment.

"Our focus is on the significance of B-BBEE for effectual and sustainable transformation," said Dr Masentle Lengane, Acting Director: Systems and Policies, in her welcoming remarks. "Transformation is not just a policy imperative, but a moral and strategic necessity," she added. "As an institution shaping the future of higher education in society, we must ensure that our policies are aligned with the national transformation framework that will truly advance inclusivity, economic empowerment and social justice."

Lengane reiterated that the focus of the seminar will be on B-BBEE as a catalyst for meaningful change. "B-BBEE, the acronym we normally use, is not just about compliance; it is about creating real opportunities and fostering systems that will advance equality, where transformation is both effectual and sustainable, to help us navigate this critical discourse," she explained.

Where are we, and how is it relevant?

In her keynote address, Advocate Lindiwe Madonsela, a Senior Manager for the B-BBEE Commission at the Department of Trade and Industry, underscored the relevance of the topic, especially in light of the recent public discussions about B-BBEE legislation.  

Citing the Bill of Rights, Chapter 2 - Section 9 of the Constitution, Madonsela pointed out the "right to equality" in support of the foundation of legislation to accomplish transformation in the economy and enhance meaningful participation of black people in the economy. "Equality includes the full and equal enjoyment of all the rights and freedoms," noted Madonsela.

According to Madonsela, "B-BBEE plays a crucial role in the transformation agenda, as it promotes the achievement of equality through legislative guidelines and other measures designed to protect or advance categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination." She added that B-BBEE is a suitable mechanism to propel a broader participation of black people in the economy, especially beneficiaries such as women and persons with disabilities.

Are we an equal or an unequal economy?

Quoting reports from Statistics South Africa, the B-BBEE Commission and the Commission for Employment Equity, Madonsela noted, "We still have a huge gap in terms of reaching a state of equality." She added that the World Bank has also reported that South Africa is still characterised by exceptionally high levels of inequality.

Madonsela also vouched for the legislation, saying that it drives the agenda for an inclusive economy, favours broader inclusivity, and does not exclude anyone from participating. She strongly highlighted the importance of identifying the real beneficiaries of B-BBEE.

In closing, Madonsela said the B-BBEE legislation is not an all-encompassing solution to all the economic challenges we have in the country. "It is not going to solve the high levels of poverty or unemployment, but it has a part to play in terms of addressing some of the social issues that we have in the South African economy," she said.

Presenting on key institutional perspectives, Vusi Mahlangu, Director of the Department of Risk and Compliance, asserted: "We must prioritise transformation before giving thought to the sustainable development goals." He further explained that B-BBEE is a system that sustains itself; those who are empowered will get more tenders and will, in turn, empower others as well.

Mahlangu further noted that if the university does not comply with B-BBEE guidelines, it will find itself at a strategic disadvantage. "Access to funding improves procurement processes, gives the university marketability and enhances morale, which are important for business growth and sustainability."

Sharing his experience, Thakani Masuka from Supply Chain Management added that B-BBEE verification, or scorecards, positions the university perfectly to further improve its performance. However, he cautioned that we should not assume that all beneficiaries need supply chain training and contract management. He proposed that the university should conduct the process based on a needs analysis and not blindly follow a set approach.

The seminar was a resounding success, and Black Forum South Africa was also given the opportunity to respond to the presentations. In this way, the organisation was able to contribute to the national transformation goals and strengthen its relevance in a changing socio-economic landscape. 

*  By Lesego Chiloane, Marketing and Communication Specialist (acting), Unisa Department of Leadership and Transformation

** Photography by Lebogang Hlungwane and Olorato Mogorosi, Interns, Department of Leadership and Transformation