Online Reporter
Michelle Musandinyoze, [email protected]
A total of 30 hairdressers in Bulawayo have each received US$200 under a US$6 000 Presidential Disbursement Fund aimed at supporting small businesses in the beauty industry.
The initiative is part of the Hairdressers for Economic Development (Hairdressers4ED) programme, a Zanu-PF-affiliated empowerment project supported by the Government. The scheme aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of “leaving no one and no place behind” as Zimbabwe works towards attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030.
In addition to the direct disbursements, a further US$4 000 will be used to purchase and distribute hairdressing equipment and products to other hairdressers who did not receive cash support, ensuring broader reach and sustainability of the initiative.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, saying the financial boost would help them revive and expand their businesses, which had been struggling due to a lack of capital and materials.
Mrs Sithabile Zimba, who runs a salon in Mahatshula suburb, shared how the fund arrived just in time.
“I had to close my shop at one point because I couldn’t afford rent or buy enough supplies. My work was suffering, and so was my income. I’d since resorted to selling wigs, but that too requires capital. I’m grateful I’ve finally received the support I desperately needed,” she said.
Miss Kelly Siwela, who operates a salon in Bulawayo’s city centre, echoed the sentiment.
“This is life-changing. With this support, I can now improve my services and grow my clientele,” she said.
Barber and hair salon operator Mr Gongonda Ndlovu said he had endured many business losses.
“I had to turn clients away because I didn’t have basic tools like clippers, scissors and trimmers. This funding will help me restock and deliver better services,” he said.
Hairdressers4ED national chairperson, Mrs Keresia Dagwaira, urged beneficiaries to put the funds to good use and elevate the standards of the beauty profession.
“This is a revolving fund that must be repaid within two months so that others can also benefit. We want to encourage innovation, job creation, and economic growth within the industry,” she said.
Mrs Dagwaira also assured those who didn’t receive funding that more support is on the way.
“To those who didn’t benefit today, this does not diminish your potential. We see your passion and commitment and encourage you to keep striving for excellence,” she said.
The Hairdressers4ED initiative not only boosts local entrepreneurship but also contributes to national economic transformation by uplifting small businesses, particularly in underserved communities.
