PwC Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative

A 20-year legacy of empowerment: Faranani transforms lives and communities across South Africa

Johannesburg, 10 June 2026 – For two decades, the PwC Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative has played a transformative role in driving change across South Africa, supporting thousands of women with the tools, confidence, and knowledge to build sustainable businesses and uplift their communities.

Founded in 2006, the programme has empowered more than 4,700 women, many of whom were already operating early-stage businesses in underserved rural areas. By strengthening their entrepreneurial skills, it has enabled them to expand their businesses, increase their income and play a greater role as job creators. Today, that impact is reflected in thriving businesses, stronger households, and ongoing development in local economies.

Recent outcomes from the programme highlights its tangible contribution to economic development and women’s empowerment in rural South Africa. Overall, 63% of participants reported increased sales, achieving an average growth of 32%, while profits rose by 30%, enabling reinvestment into and expansion of their businesses.

At the same time, 55% reduced operational costs, particularly in logistics and transportation, enhancing efficiency and resilience. Employment increased by an average of 22%, contributing to job creation and stronger local economies.

Beyond financial gains, there was a 112% increase in the number of women maintaining formal business records, reflecting improved financial management, while 61% expanded existing offerings or introduced new products and services, demonstrating greater innovation and market responsiveness.

Together, these results demonstrate a testament to the power of targeted, purpose-driven support in unlocking entrepreneurial potential, empowering women, and driving inclusive, sustainable growth.

Empowering women and building prosperity

The Faranani initiative was born out of a simple but powerful belief, that when women are equipped with the right skills and opportunities, they don’t just participate in the economy, they help drive it.

Through practical training in financial management, marketing, pricing, and business planning, participants strengthen and formalise their enterprises, positioning them for growth and long-term sustainability.

For many, this journey represents more than just business progress, it reflects a shift towards financial independence, restored dignity, and renewed confidence.

Creating impact beyond individuals

The impact of Faranani reaches well beyond the women who participate. With 97% of graduates mentoring others in their communities, the programme creates a strong impact by sharing knowledge, strengthening local networks, expanding opportunities for others.

As businesses grow, the benefits become clear, households become more stable, incomes increase, and new jobs are created within communities. Over time, this contributes to reduced poverty, unemployment, inequalities, improved wellbeing, and stronger local economies, reinforcing Faranani’s role in advancing inclusive and sustainable development across South Africa.

Honouring a legacy of leadership

This year marks a significant milestone for the programme, and an emotional moment in its journey. After years of championing and growing the initiative, Shirley Machaba, CEO of PwC Southern Africa, and founding force behind Faranani, will be stepping back from the programme she helped bring to life.

Her leadership has been instrumental in positioning Faranani not only as a training initiative, but as a nationally recognised model grassroots economic empowerment.

Looking ahead

As the programme enters its next chapter, PwC remains committed to its continued growth and impact. Building on the momentum created over the past 20 years, Skalo Dikana, Corporate Sustainability Leader at PwC South Africa, will take on a leading role in championing the Faranani initiative going forward.

Dikana noted that Faranani has laid a strong foundation for inclusive economic development, adding that the focus going forward will be on deepening impact, reaching more women, strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, and ensuring the programme continues to empower women for generations to come.

A model for inclusive and sustainable growth

Aligned to key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including gender equality, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, health and wellbeing and quality education, the Faranani Rural Women Training Initiative stands as a proven, scalable model for inclusive development.

What started as a response to unemployment, poverty and inequalities has evolved into a powerful programme that strengthens entrepreneurial activity, builds sustainable businesses, supports communities, and drives lasting economic progress.

A lasting impact

As Faranani continues to evolve, its purpose to empower women, uplift communities, and expand opportunities where they are needed most remains unchanged. While this chapter marks the end of Shirley Machaba’s direct involvement, her legacy will endure in the thousands of women whose lives and futures have been strengthened through the programme.