Over the past few weeks, there have been articles and headlines questioning whether or not the country should continue with its Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies.

As South Africa celebrates Freedom Day, marking the historic 1994 democratic elections that ended apartheid, I find myself reflecting on what this day means for my generation.

The BEE Chamber welcomes the Department of Employment and Labour’s release of the 2025 Employment Equity (EE) Regulations and sector-specific numerical targets on 14 April 2025, a step which is intended to more effectively address historical disparities experienced by designated groups (Black people, women and people with disabilities), by accelerating the pace of South African workforce transformation.

The BEE Chamber welcomes the decisive action taken by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the South African Police Service (SAPs), which has led to 240 arrests and the reporting of 745 extortion cases since November 2024, as announced by Minister Dean Macpherson at the Built Environment Indaba on April 10.

International Women's Day (IWD), 08 March 2025, resonates through history as a beacon and a call to arms for the worldwide fight for women's rights and gender equality. However, when we delve into the layers of this celebration, the specific obstacles encountered by South African women, particularly Black women, come to light.

One of the lies that is perpetually being echoed is that “Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) does not work”. I disagree, B-BBEE does work. My argument is that people who benefit from the injustice of exclusion, and feel they lose power, are the ones who will continue to spread the lies and myths so they can continue to benefit exclusively.

A Transactional strategy often prioritises short-term gains and superficial compliance, whereas a Transformational approach involves a deeper, more holistic transformation of an organisation's DNA. By aligning initiatives with the broader goals of the B-BBEE Scorecard, companies can foster lasting change that transcends mere tokenism.

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, has approved the Legal Sector Code in terms of section 9(1) of the B-BBEE Act which aims to accelerate the transformation of the legal sector. The BEE Chamber supports this and believes the LSC will usher in a new era of inclusivity and equality within the legal profession.

The BEE Chamber, a leading authority in B-BBEE compliance, highlights the critical importance of efficiently managing B-BBEE Verification Certificates and Sworn Affidavits to maximise B-BBEE scores and meet procurement targets. Bridget Themba, Certificate Services Manager at The BEE Chamber, emphasises the challenges faced by organisations in collecting and updating essential B-BBEE documentation.

As South Africa prepares to commemorate Women's Day on August 9, 2024, The BEE Chamber stands in solidarity with women across the nation, recognising their invaluable contributions to society and advocating for greater gender equality in the workplace.

The Top Empowerment Conference held in Johannesburg this last week saw Yuneal Padayachy, Chief Support Officer at the BEE Chamber, deliver a compelling message on the imperative need for organisations to adopt a Transformative approach to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE).

Miguel Correira, B-BBEE Transformation Consultant at The BEE Chamber, writes about the importance of prioritising skills development in organisations and the critical role it plays in driving positive change and transformation in SA's economy. Miguel further highlights different skills development initiatives which can help reduce inequality, foster entrepreneurship and enhance global competitiveness.

Every June, the world unites to celebrate International Pride Month—a time dedicated to recognising the LGBTQIA+* community, reflecting on its history, and advocating for a more inclusive future. Countries across the globe participate in collective celebration with parades, events, and various activities that embody the spirit of pride. 

Kebalepile Matlhako, Transformation Specialist at The BEE Chamber unpacks the power of The Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) element of B-BBEE and the systematic issues faced by SMMEs. He also shares interventions suggested by The BEE Chamber to ensure a conducive environment for SMME's to thrive and contribute to SA's economic development.

On Saturday 27 April, SA commemorates Freedom Day. Ahead of the day which marks a new beginning and how far we've come since Apartheid days, Nonhlanhla Mahlaule at the BEE Chamber shares her story on how B-BBEE has paved the way for a more inclusive business landscape.

The B-BBEE landscape is ever evolving, making it difficult for companies to keep up and navigate this complex landscape. The BEE Chamber underscores the importance of the right partners.

Nadia Hattia, Senior Consultant at The BEE Chamber writes about the complexities of aligning with the right Codes of Good Practice in an entity. In the piece she unpacks some of the challenges and what to look at during the journey.

On 1 February 2024, new Draft Regulations were released, containing new Draft Sectoral Targets, and unpacking what businesses need to consider when setting goals. The public now has 90 days from release to comment on the Draft. 

As South Africa moves into 2024, the landscape of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) is poised for significant shifts. The B-BBEE framework has been a cornerstone of Economic Transformation in our country, aiming to address historical imbalances and promote inclusive Economic Growth. 

Disability in the workplace is more than hiring people with disability but creating an inclusive environment where employees with disabilities have an equal opportunity to learn, to be compensated fairly and to succeed. In the below piece, Yuneal Padayachy Chief Support Officer at the BEE Chamber unpacks  the significant relationship between B-BEE and disability initiatives in order to create a more inclusive workforce in South Africa.