Online Reporter
Nokuthaba Brita Ncube, [email protected]
IN a world where disability is often misconceived as inability, Ms Annalinia Dzavakwa is shattering stereotypes, one hamper basket at a time.
At 57, this remarkable woman has built a thriving business, supplying her beautifully crafted baskets to Arenel Foods in Bulawayo. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination, skill and a refusal to be limited by societal expectations.
Ms Dzavakwa’s path to success began in 2009 when she enrolled at the Jairos Jiri Vocational Training Centre in Bulawayo’s Nguboyenja suburb. This pivotal decision not only honed her craft but also enabled her to pay it forward by teaching children with disabilities the art of weaving.
Her experience at the centre instilled in her the confidence to turn her passion into a business, which has flourished with the support of Arenel Foods.
The partnership with Arenel Foods has been instrumental in sustaining Ms Dzavakwa’s business, allowing her to empower others and create a ripple effect of positivity in her community.
However, her impact extends far beyond the economic sphere. Ms Dzavakwa’s unwavering passion is to challenge and dismantle the societal stereotypes that have long plagued people with disabilities.
She is living proof that disability does not mean inability and her accomplishments serve as a beacon of hope for others who have been marginalised or underestimated.
“When people see someone who is differently abled, they often assume we are helpless, but we just need support. Once we get it, we can sustain ourselves. Unfortunately, many of us are left behind because people think we are beggars,” said Ms Dzavakwa.
At the vocational centre, Ms Dzavakwa teaches visually impaired children and others with disabilities who may not be able to take up welding or carpentry. She specialises in making hamper baskets, coffee tables, chairs and mats—a skill she eagerly passes on to her students.
“I want them to have something to do when they go back home. Disability should never mean being idle. Everyone has the ability to create something with their hands,” she said.
Despite her expertise, marketing remains a challenge. She relies on word-of-mouth and the occasional visitor who stumbles upon her work. Arenel Foods is her biggest customer, but she dreams of expanding her reach.
“I don’t have a proper way of advertising. Sometimes, people visit and place orders after seeing my work,” said Ms Dzavakwa.
However, business is not without its setbacks. Access to raw materials is one of her biggest hurdles. She sources reeds from a supplier in Nkayi, but inconsistent demand makes it difficult to maintain stock.
“I once received an order for 60 hamper baskets, but the person never returned. That was a huge loss. Now, I require deposits before I start working on any order,” said Ms Dzavakwa.
On a productive day, she crafts two baskets, though some may take up to three days to complete, depending on their complexity.
Ms Dzavakwa’s work aligns with the National Disability Policy, launched by President Mnangagwa in June 2021, which seeks to promote equal opportunities, accessibility, and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Building on this initiative, the Government established the Technical National Co-ordination Committee in 2022 to oversee and guide the implementation of the policy.
The committee plays a crucial role in ensuring that the objectives outlined in the policy translate into tangible improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities.
