Story by Providence Maraneli
PEOPLE with disabilities (PWD) from the three districts of Matabeleland South province have benefitted from skills training in a beadwork programme being spearheaded by a beneficiary of the Culture Fund.
The beadwork exhibition featured intricately designed bracelets, bags, necklaces and apparel, products of a skills training programme aimed at empowering PWDs from the districts of Insiza, Gwanda and Beitbridge.
The initiative, spearheaded by Culture Fund beneficiary, Maginess Ndlovu, has been hailed as a model of inclusive economic empowerment.
Beneficiaries received training tailored to accommodate various disabilities, equipping them with the tools to become self-reliant.
“I am so grateful to Mrs Ndlovu, who after getting the fund thought of us and started training us in beadwork, now I can take care of myself,” a beneficiary said.
“I am now empowered, I can now pay fees for my children, and I can no longer depend on hand-outs. This is in line with the government’s thrust of leaving no one and no place behind,” another added.
The organiser of the exhibition, Mrs Maginess Ndlovu believes that training, which was tailor-made for people with diverse disabilities, has been a success as evidenced by the designs.
“This exhibition is not just about showcasing art; it is about economic independence, celebrating the boundless capabilities within our disabled community, and inspiring wider participation. While progress has been made, there is still much ground to cover. Matabeleland South has seven districts and many more PWDs who require support. A coordinated, all-stakeholder approach is essential,” she said.
The Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture, which is driving national efforts to promote inclusive arts development, has commended the initiative.
“This is in line with the government’s drive of leaving no one and no place behind. Now these people can look after themselves and at the same time, we are promoting arts and our culture,” the Ministry’s Acting Provincial Deputy Director, Promise Dube said.
Dubbed Maggie’s unique designs, the exhibition showcased beaded bracelets, bags, necklaces and clothes.
The project not only showcases the creative potential within the PWD community, but also reflects ongoing efforts to support sustainable livelihoods through culture and the arts.
