Chronicle Editor
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
DIVERSIFIED financial services group, Old Mutual Zimbabwe, has partnered with the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) Church to empower women with financial skills, enabling them to manage their finances effectively both at home and in business.
The initiative formed part of the church’s annual Widows and Single Mothers Conference, which attracted over 15,000 women.
Old Mutual Zimbabwe has been leveraging its ‘On The Money’ financial education programme to foster lasting partnerships with institutions such as churches and women’s groups. These collaborations aim to drive economic transformation and financial inclusion for all.
In a statement, Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s Group Head of Marketing, Public Affairs, and Sustainability, Ms Lillian Mbayiwa, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that by engaging with these women, they are helping to bridge the financial education gap and empowering them to take charge of their financial futures.
“We are honoured to begin the year with this meaningful collaboration with AFM Church. Zimbabwe is predominantly a Christian nation, and churches bring together people from diverse backgrounds, including stay-at-home mothers, working professionals, and business owners,” said Ms Mbayiwa.
“Historically, financial education has not been prioritised in families and schools, leaving many Zimbabweans without the necessary knowledge to manage their finances effectively.
“Discussions about budgeting, saving, and investing are often avoided, even between parents and children. Through ‘On The Money’, we address these gaps with simple, practical, and easy-to-apply financial principles.”
She further highlighted the importance of financial literacy in maintaining family harmony, noting that financial challenges are one of the leading causes of stress and conflict in families.
By promoting financial literacy, she said, Old Mutual is not only strengthening household financial stability but also complementing the spiritual guidance provided by the church.
“Our goal is to ensure that financial wellness becomes an integral part of people’s lives, just as spiritual wellness is,” she said.
AFM’s Widows and Single Mothers Outreach (WISMO) department was established in 1997 in Harare by Reverend Titus Murefu. Led by Amai Cathrine Madawo, the department is dedicated to uplifting widows and single mothers by encouraging self-sufficiency and active participation in church projects.
Speaking at the event, an AFM representative, [AFM Speaker’s Name], acknowledged the significance of the partnership.
“The financial literacy session was a game-changer for many women attending this conference. As a church, we focus on holistic empowerment—spiritual, emotional, and economic,” said the church representative.
“We are grateful to Old Mutual for equipping our women with the knowledge and tools to improve their financial well-being.”
‘On The Money’ is Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s flagship financial education initiative designed to teach Zimbabweans how to manage their finances effectively.
This collaboration with AFM Church marks a significant step towards empowering Zimbabwean women with the financial knowledge they need to build secure futures for themselves and their families.
Online Reporter