mbulelo smpofu
Sikhulekelani Moyo, mskhulekelani16@gmail.com
SMALL and medium enterprises (SMEs) specialising in garment production have praised the Maker Space facility at the SMEs Centre in Bulawayo, saying it has enabled them to increase production and improve efficiency.
Services they used to outsource are now available under one roof, saving time and reducing costs.
Established last year through a collaboration between the Government, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the Maker Space Innovation is a ground-breaking initiative aimed at supporting women-led enterprises in the textile industry.
Ms Samkeliso Nyambiri, an entrepreneur operating at the SMEs Centre, expressed her satisfaction with the facility, saying it has streamlined her operations.
“Before Maker Space, we had to source services like embroidery and buttonhole creation from outside, which was time-consuming and expensive. Now, with the facility offering these services on-site, we can produce in bulk and deliver high-quality garments faster,” she said.
Ms Nyambiri also noted the availability of specialised machinery such as flossing machines, button sew-on equipment and elastic insertion tools, which have significantly improved the finishing of garments.
“These machines are dedicated to garment finishing. Once production is complete, I bring my garments here and the finishing touches are done professionally. This ensures that the final product meets high-quality standards,” she said.
The Maker Space project goes beyond providing access to advanced machinery. It offers training programmes, mentorship and business support services to empower women entrepreneurs and foster sustainable business growth.
Bulawayo Chamber of SMEs programmes co-ordinator, Mr Nketa Mangoye Dlamini said the facility has seen increased usage, particularly during the back-to-school season when demand for uniforms peaks.
He said this will promote mass production, reducing the cost of doing business, which will enhance product competitiveness.
“This is cheaper and fast and we hope those who also operate in town will also come and utilise the facility,” said Mr Dlamini.
The Maker Space is part of a broader effort to address gender disparities in the textile industry and create an inclusive environment for women entrepreneurs. By equipping women with the tools, training and other support services they need, the initiative seeks to empower them as key players in the industry and drive economic growth.
As the project continues to grow, it is expected to create jobs, stimulate innovation and contribute significantly to the growth of the local economy.
This initiative stands as a testament to the Government’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment and sustainable development. — @SikhulekelaniM1
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
