Mbombo
When women are at the table, democracy is stronger
With International Women’s Day celebrated in March, we sat down with Professor Nomafrench Mbombo, a Member of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament and former Provincial Minister of Health.
Before entering politics, Mbombo worked as a professional nurse and in academia. This gave her profound knowledge and experience, which later helped her serve as the Western Cape Minister of Health, particularly during the difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“That experience made me realise that if we want systems to work better for people, we must also be part of shaping those systems. Public service gives you the opportunity to influence policy, strengthen institutions, and advocate for communities. That sense of responsibility is what keeps me committed to this work,” she says.
She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Mobility, where she oversees the department’s work, particularly ensuring that transport works for the people. This year marks twelve years of her serving as a Member of the Provincial Parliament.
But mobility is not just about transport for her.
“Reliable and safe mobility connects communities to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunity. It is about dignity as much as infrastructure,” says Mbombo.
Alongside this work, she continues engaging internationally with other parliamentarians on issues such as women’s health, public policy, and development, recognising that many of the challenges societies face require global cooperation as well as local leadership.
Reflections in Public Office
Mbombo says being a woman in the arena is no easy task.
“Politics can still be a space where women sometimes feel they have to prove themselves more than others. There can be higher scrutiny and expectations.”
However, these challenges do not hold her back. Instead, she sees them as opportunities to demonstrate that leadership is about “competence, integrity and service”.
But it is not just about being present in the arena, she says. Women bring diverse perspectives into what has historically been a male-dominated space.
“When women occupy leadership spaces, they bring important perspectives that strengthen decision-making and governance. It also sends a powerful message to younger women that these spaces belong to them too.”
Being in the arena can be exhausting. For Mbombo, knowing her purpose is what keeps her grounded and focused in service to the people.
“When you see the impact that good governance can have on people’s lives, it reminds you that the work is meaningful. I also draw inspiration from communities themselves. People show remarkable resilience and determination, and that encourages us to continue doing our part.”
We must continue strengthening institutions, addressing community safety, and tackling issues such as gender-based violence. These challenges require sustained leadership and partnership across society
Women’s Inclusion in Democracy
“When women are at the table, democracy is stronger,” Mbombo says, adding that leadership should reflect the diversity of society.
“Women bring valuable perspectives to policy discussions and leadership decisions. Young women in particular bring new ideas, energy, and courage. Their participation is essential if we want leadership that is inclusive and forward-looking.”
When asked which issues require urgent attention from politicians in the country today, she highlights unemployment, one of the highest in the world.
“Economic opportunity and job creation remain critical priorities, particularly for young people. In the Western Cape, improving mobility and public transport remains an important focus. Safe and reliable transport connects people to opportunity and helps communities participate more fully in the economy.”
South Africa also faces a pandemic of gender-based violence, so severe that the President has declared it a national disaster.
For Mbombo, “we must continue strengthening institutions, addressing community safety, and tackling issues such as gender-based violence. These challenges require sustained leadership and partnership across society.”
Her message to young women
Mbombo believes young women must use their voices in the different spaces they occupy and ensure they are heard.
“Leadership is not always easy, but it is meaningful work. Seek mentors, build strong networks, and stay grounded in your values. I live by the mantra, ‘Where I am planted, I grow.’ For me, leadership means serving where you are, doing the work with integrity, and ensuring that as we move forward, we leave no one behind.”