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Sindisiwe Sibanda, Sunday News Reporter
WOMEN in Umzingwane District in Matabeleland South have launched a community bakery, as part of efforts to raise income and uplift their lives.
Umzingwane Member of Parliament Retired Brigadier-General Levi Mayihlome, who officiated at the event that was held at Doyana said the project has the potential to transform the lives of the women.
“We are pleased to have introduced many and different projects such as baking, bee-hive keeping and mining. Therefore, this is a massive opportunity for women as this programme requires fewer resources to manage. The programme is empowering and will uplift women in the community. As Umzingwane District, we are saying women and youths should stand up and grab these opportunities and Umzingwane is big enough for everyone. So, let us all us stand up and take these opportunities availed to us,” said Rtd Brig-Gen Mayihlome.
Ward 4 Bakeries co-operative matron Mrs Leaflet Ndlovu said the project started in August, after women were trained through the ruling party, Zanu-PF.
“When we started, we were just seven co-ordinators and now we have managed to teach other women in seven villages that is Sibambene, Ekuthuleni, Ntabemnyama, Sibangani, Mlambathema and Ntola. We now have 10 representatives in those villages which is a big breakthrough as now we are baking an average of 200 buns a day that we sell to the community,” said Mrs Ndlovu.
Ward 4 councillor, Jethro Moyo said he was happy that women from the area were being empowered.
“This is a huge development which will take these women to greater heights as they are determined and willing to better themselves. Therefore, we are appealing to the Government and well-wishers to support these women as they have a long-term plan to have their headquarters at Esibomvu Business Centre,” said Clr Moyo.
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