A TRANSFORMATIVE womens empowerment initiative in Matabeleland South’province has received a significant boost after a United Kingdom (UK)-based donor provided sewing machines to communities in Ensango and Shangani Mine, Insiza North constituency.
The donation, made by UK citizen Julie Phillip through the Methodist Episcopal Church, will equip women’s groups to produce affordable school uniforms and reusable sanitary pads.
Ten machines will initially serve Methodist Ensango Block Village 5, with another 10 later transferred to Shangani Mine Ward 23’s Ladies Group as part of a broader self-help and skills development programme.
The equipment is currently in Bulawayo awaiting transportation under the co-ordination of Methodist representative Mama MaZondo.
Ward 23 resident Faith Luphahla, who belongs to the Johane Masowe Apostolic Church, commended the Methodist Church for extending the opportunity beyond denominational lines.
“If all churches worked like that, communities would grow through projects,” Luphahla said.
“She taught us that the sewing machines are donated to assist not only Methodist members.
“The call is extended to all community women.”
The project’s progress faced a hurdle when women’s groups struggled to raise transport funds for nearly a week.
Relief came from Ward 23 shadow councillor and New Eclipse mine chief executive, Sikhanyisiwe Nkomo, popularly known as “CAB 3 Queen”, who provided US$110 for transportation.
“You are the answer to our prayer,” Luphahla told Nkomo.
“As a community, we now have a way to support our children with uniforms, sanitary pads and to do business with those machines.”
With transport secured, organisers will now move the machines from Bulawayo to Ensango village 5 before the official handover and training at Shangani Mine.
Community members describe the initiative as a lifeline that will empower women and strengthen the social fabric of their constituency.
