The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has hailed President Thabo Mbeki's appointment of more women to serve in his Cabinet for the next five years. Altogether 22 women have been appointed, 12 as Ministers and ten as Deputy Ministers, taking the total cabinet representation of women to 43%. The President retained nine women cabinet ministers and promoted three who were deputies.

Foreign Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma retained her post while Home Affairs Deputy Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has been promoted to the minister position. Lindiwe Sisulu has been appointed as Housing Minister and Stella Sigcau as Public Works Minister. Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has been retained for another term as the Health Minister.

Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri will continue to ensure proper technology in the communication sector as she retained her position as Minister of Communications while Thoko Didiza retains her position as Land Affairs Minister.

Bridgette Mabandla has been appointed as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development while Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka retained her position as Minster of Minerals and Energy.

Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi will continue in her portfolio as Minister of Public Service and Administration.

Having served as Arts and Culture Deputy Minister for two years, Buyelwa Sonjica now takes up the Water Affairs and Forestry portfolio. CGE spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala said the President had illustrated a commitment to gender equality and that the policy of promoting women at crucial decision-making levels was being implemented. - BuaNews