An Evaluation Of Gender Diversity In Small To Medium Enterprises Situated In The Windhoek Central Business District Area, Brb Building, Ausspannplatz, Namibia

Abstract Workplace gender diversity in Namibia Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has been a topic hidden in obscurity over the past years. This research explored the attitudes of SME employers towards gender diversity, the perception of employees and the effects of gender diversity in the workplace using examples from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) situated in Windhoek Central Business District Area at BRB Building Ausspannplatz, Namibia as a basis and framework for analysis. Workplace gender diversity refers to the equitable and fair representation of all genders at the workplace. In this study the evaluation of gender diversity was only be narrowed to men and women. For the purposes of this study a quantitative research methodology was used. A questionnaire was used to gather data from the target population. A total sample of 53 respondents was targeted out of a population of 61 SMEs. Among the 53 questionnaires that were distributed, 53 were returned. Based on the findings this research concludes that there is significant need for SMEs to address gender diversity tactfully within their organisations. Among the respondents, 49.1% were not sure whether their organizations embrace gender diversity or not. The majority of the respondents constituting 77.4% were not satisfied with their management’s attitude towards gender diversity. According to the findings, 81.1% agreed that SMEs would benefit from gender diversity and 71.7% agreed that gender diversity enhances business performance. It is therefore imperative for SME employers to recognise the positive impacts of gender diversity, leverage them and create real value for their employees and organisations. A holistic and multifaceted approach that involves employees at all levels is essential for achieving positive gender inclusivity.