Staff Reporter
Women in Mwenezi East Constituency are reaping the rewards of a community empowerment programme, with the Mufula Women’s League in Ward 5 running a successful chick-rearing project, thanks to funding availed through an initiative by local MP, SheillahChikomo.
The programme, which is aimed at uplifting women through sustainable income-generating projects, has already disbursed funds to four out of the six wards in the constituency, with the remaining two wards expected to receive their allocations by end of May.
Speaking during a recent visit to the project in Ward 5,Honourable Chikomo said women were central to community development and deserved targeted support to help them unlock their full potential.
“We are committed to ensuring that women in Mwenezi East are empowered with the resources and skills they need to improve their lives. This chicken-rearing project is a practical initiative that is already bearing fruit, and we want to see more such projects replicated across the constituency
“By the end of this month, every ward in Mwenezi East will have received their funding, and I am confident that we will continue to see tangible results from these efforts,” said MP Chikomo.
The project in Ward 5 has seen dozens of women come together to raise broiler chickens, which they are now supplying to local markets, schools, and shops.
The proceeds are being reinvested into the project, with plans underway to scale up operations.
Local residents have commended the initiative for empowering women and stimulating economic activity in the community.
“This project has changed our lives. Before, we had no source of income. Now we are raising chickens and earning money. It has brought hope and dignity to many households,” said Tsitsi Dube, a beneficiary of the programme.
Rodney Kudzanai, a community member, also hailed the programme.
“What Honourable Chikomo has done here is commendable. The women are now active contributors to our local economy. We used to rely on external suppliers, but now we have our own source of chickens,” he said.
The project is being supported by agricultural extension officers who are providing technical training and guidance in poultry management.
With enthusiasm growing and more wards set to join the programme, Mwenezi East Constituency is fast becoming a shining example of how grassroots empowerment can drive community transformation.
