Sinokubonga Nkala
Sikhulekelani Moyo, mskhulekelani16@gmail.com
THE Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development has announced the successful development of 27 community projects through funding from the Zimbabwe Community Development Fund.
These initiatives are part of broader Government efforts to empower women and support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through various funding mechanisms, including the Zimbabwe Women’s Bank, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO), and the Zimbabwe Community Development Fund. The ministry also collaborates with private and public stakeholders to secure additional resources for projects benefiting women and SMEs.
In his post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, highlighted the progress made in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
“Twenty-seven community projects mainly in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors were funded through the Zimbabwe Community Development Fund,” he said.
Dr Muswere further disclosed that 29 projects focusing on dairy and potato farming, bakery, detergent making, events management, beadwork, cleaning services, and peanut butter production were funded across all 10 provinces under the Women Development Fund.
Government is also making strides in improving infrastructure to support MSMEs. Dr Muswere said phase three of the Chikomba Factory Shells construction in Chivhu, Mashonaland East province, is progressing well. Similarly, the Mutapa Workspace for MSMEs in Gweru, Midlands province, is nearing completion.
Dr Muswere said Government, in partnership with the private sector and development partners, remains committed to prioritising women’s empowerment through gender mainstreaming, provision of workspace, and financial support to enable women to achieve their full potential.
Over the years, Government has recognised the critical role women play in driving economic growth and societal progress. This recognition has led to the implementation of comprehensive policies and initiatives aimed at creating an environment conducive to women’s full participation in national development.
The ministry is also working on aligning the Broad-Based Women Economic Empowerment Framework (BBWEEF) with national development goals. Adopted in 2012, the framework seeks to harness the potential of women and youth by addressing capacity gaps and promoting value addition and beneficiation in targeted value chains.
The initiative aims to create decent jobs and enhance economic opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled women and youth. — @SikhulekelaniM1
mbulelo smpofu
