IFC: Gender-Smart Climate Diagnostic South Africa

Mthente was commissioned by Ergon, on behalf of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, to conduct a gender and climate diagnostic survey for the private sector in South Africa. The study aimed to establish critical linkages between South Africa’s private sector priorities, climate ambitions, and gender goals. Its purpose was to identify actionable steps private sector companies can take to enhance women’s participation in the country’s climate transition, building on the long-term recommendations outlined in national policy documents. The diagnostic also involved in-depth analyses of key sectors with significant climate impact to explore gender disparities in employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The focus was on three high-priority sectors: solar energy, agribusiness (specifically fruit), and green hydrogen. A total of 90 surveys were conducted across these sectors, successfully meeting the target for this study.