WOMEN living with disabilities in Bulawayo have received hands-on training in social entrepreneurship, value-addition, branding and market access to ensure self-sustenance.The initiative, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation through Oxfam, was facilitated by the Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (Walpe).The training combined theoretical and practical lessons, including sessions on sewing and detergent making, aimed at equipping women with skills they can immediately use to start income-generating ventures.Walpe media and public relations officer Sizalokuhle Ncube said the programme was about building capacity for women to lead sustainable lives without relying on handouts.“Economic empowerment of women is critical — it allows them to be financially independent so that they do not depend on other people,” she said. “We encourage them to use their available skills to generate income rather than wait to be employed. We promote creative thinking that leads to income.”The programme is part of a broader effort by Walpe to promote inclusive economic empowerment and create spaces where women with disabilities can thrive as entrepreneurs.She added that Walpe provided small revolving grants to help women start businesses. Ncube called on local authorities to support disabled women entrepreneurs.“Local leaders must recognise that these women are capable of working independently. They should stop assuming these women are being used to sell illegal goods,” she said.Women who participated in the programme described it as life-changing.“The training really had a huge impact on me and my perspective on how to manage my finances,” said Primrose Ndlovu, one of the beneficiaries. Another participant, Chidadiso Mbazo, said being in a learning space with other women was empowering.“Getting to know what others are doing, how they are saving and sharing ideas — that, for me, was the biggest plus.”
