A financial transformation is underway in Hakwata Village, Chipinge, where a traditional savings practice known as mukando is fueling local development. This shift follows the commissioning of a 200-kilowatt solar mini-grid, a project implemented by the government and the United Nations Development Programme with support from the United Kingdom. The community, once characterized by poverty, is now a model of rural self-reliance.
The savings groups, largely composed of women, operate as Internal Savings and Lending Associations. Members contribute small sums weekly, with the pooled funds being loaned out to support small businesses. Individuals like Privilege Sithole and Cloudia Dhliwayo have used these loans to start a grocery shop and expand a tailoring enterprise, respectively. The initiative has also attracted men, including builder Misheck Mhlanga, who used a loan to grow his construction business.
Local Councilor Pioneer Gavhumendi stated that the villagers' initiative aligns with the government's goal of rural industrialization. He observed that the synergy between the solar infrastructure and community finance has empowered residents, enabling new trades and restoring a sense of dignity and unity.
The savings groups, largely composed of women, operate as Internal Savings and Lending Associations. Members contribute small sums weekly, with the pooled funds being loaned out to support small businesses. Individuals like Privilege Sithole and Cloudia Dhliwayo have used these loans to start a grocery shop and expand a tailoring enterprise, respectively. The initiative has also attracted men, including builder Misheck Mhlanga, who used a loan to grow his construction business.
Local Councilor Pioneer Gavhumendi stated that the villagers' initiative aligns with the government's goal of rural industrialization. He observed that the synergy between the solar infrastructure and community finance has empowered residents, enabling new trades and restoring a sense of dignity and unity.
