Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata in HAKWATA, Chipinge
THE Mukando Savings and Lending Initiative has improved livelihoods for women and men in Hakwata Village, Chipinge District, a year after President Mnangagwa commissioned a 200-kilowatt solar mini-grid that brought electricity to the community for the first time since independence.
The establishment of the mini-grid was implemented by Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with financial support from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
The informal savings scheme, known locally as mukando — meaning “contribution” or “to pool money” — operates as an Internal Savings and Lending Association (ISLA).
Members contribute money regularly and take turns to access loans for income-generating activities.
Women in Hakwata have credited Mukando with helping them start and expand small businesses, reducing financial dependence and fostering entrepreneurship in the rural community.
Mrs Privilege Sithole (25), one of the beneficiaries, said the initiative had enabled her to start a grocery business.
“Before joining the Mukando, I relied entirely on my husband. The money I received helped me start a small grocery shop and I can now support my family and save for the future,” she said.
Local tailor Mrs Cloudia Dhliwayo (26) said the scheme allowed her to expand her business and train others.
“With electricity now available, I managed to buy an extra sewing machine using a Mukando loan,” she said.
“I can take more orders and train other young women. It has truly changed our lives.”
Although Mukando groups are traditionally dominated by women, some men in Hakwata have also joined and benefited from the system.
Builder Mr Misheck Mhlanga (45) said the savings club helped him access capital for his work.
“I got a loan through Mukando, which I used to buy construction tools and cement. My business has grown, and I now employ two young people from the community,” he said.
Welder Mr Lovemore Hakwata (42) said the scheme had been instrumental in keeping his welding business running.
“With the arrival of electricity, welding became possible,” he said.
“Through Mukando, I bought materials and equipment. It has boosted both my business and my family’s welfare.”
Ward 25 Councillor Mr Pioneer Gavhumendi of the Chipinge Rural District Council commended the community for embracing collective empowerment initiatives.
“The solar mini-grid brought power to Hakwata, and Mukando brought economic power to the people. Women are driving change and the community is witnessing improved livelihoods as a result,” he said.
Clr Gavhumendi said the initiative supported Government efforts to promote financial inclusion and rural industrialisation under President Mnangagwa’s development agenda.
“This is a practical example of Vision 2030 at the community level. Villagers are using their own resources to uplift themselves. No one and no place is being left behind,” he said.
The Mukando initiative has become an essential part of Hakwata’s rural development model, empowering women, creating jobs, and enhancing financial stability in a once-marginalised community.
