Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
PROSPECT Lithium Zimbabwe’s empowerment projects are bearing fruit in Goromonzi, with beneficiaries testifying that their livelihoods have been transformed.
One of the successful projects the organisation has funded, in its quest to foster women’s empowerment, is a sewing project.
This project, which started in 2024, among others, is testament to PLZ’s commitment towards women’s empowerment.
PLZ public relations manager Patience Chizodza said that since the project started, beneficiaries have received orders amounting to US$15 000.
She said the project is benefiting seven women and plans are in place to ensure that more women benefit.
“We are so happy because over the years, they have managed to get orders worth US$15000 from PLZ and other organisations, including Government departments.”
During a recent media tour of the project at the PLZ site in Goromonzi, beneficiaries of this project thanked the organisation for giving them a lifeline.
“When the programme was introduced, I took it seriously and never looked back. And now I am one of the happiest beneficiaries in Goromonzi,” said Mrs Martha Nechingure.
“This project has assisted me and my family in a big way. I can easily contribute to the welfare of my family.
“Previously, my husband would do everything for us; he never complained, and I am grateful for that.
“So now I am also making money and I am helping him in taking care of our children, I can even pay school fees for the children. I also buy clothes and even food for all of us at home. We are thankful to PLZ for the gesture, and we will continue working hard.”
Another beneficiary, Ms Alice Ndebele, said the project is a game changer.
“We receive orders, especially from PLZ, and we do them and get money,” Ms Ndebele said. “It is pleasing just to make own money as a woman, and this was made possible by PLZ. Our lives have been turned around and we are grateful. We hope PLZ will do other programmes that touch people’s lives. I am grateful.”
Ms Felistas Rutanhira, the group’s leader, said, “We are thrilled by what PLZ has done for us. Our lives have improved. We are now well known and we receive new orders daily.”
Since it began operations in 2022, PLZ has invested in numerous Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the Goromonzi district, worth over US$3 million.
