Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
MORE than 4 000 young women in Matabeleland North have benefited from empowerment programmes under the Young Women for Economic Development (YW4ED) initiative, a flagship component of the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda.
At the heart of the programme is the goat pass-on scheme, which has emerged as a vital source of livelihood for rural women, promoting economic independence and sustainable income generation.
Launched two years ago, the scheme continues to transform lives. Beneficiaries not only receive livestock but also access training in entrepreneurship and small-scale farming.
“I joined YoungWomen4ED and I have received opportunities to ensure my life will never be the same again,” a young lady said.
“When I came to YoungWomen4ED, I was not only trained to be a businessperson but I also got a chance to start my own business, which is important,” a businesswoman said.
“All I want is to be an empowered young woman, and I am glad to have been given the opportunity,” a beneficiary said.
The goat pass-on scheme is one of the several empowerment projects meant to uplift livelihoods with a special focus on women.
“We continue to grow as an organisation as we receive more support from the national level through our ZANU PF party channels and government. All we want to ensure is that our young women are given all opportunities to uplift themselves through different business ventures,” Chairperson Young Women 4ED Matabeleland North, Ms Nora Dube said.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, especially in marginalised areas, in line with Vision 2030.
Under the second republic’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, the Young Women for Economic Development is providing goats, poultry, agriculture and skills training programmes to uplift livelihoods across the country.
