Staff Reporter
Kutsaga, the Tobacco Research Board, is transforming lives in Epworth through employment creation and skills development, particularly targeting women.
The initiative focuses on empowering women through training in tobacco growing and processing, contributing to both economic upliftment and social development.
Speaking in an interview with this publication yesterday, Kutsaga CEO Dr Frank Magama, said the organisation was committed to inclusive development and has prioritised the employment of local women, offering not only jobs but also accommodation.
“The majority of employees here are women, and they are mostly locals from Epworth. Even in managerial positions, women have taken the lead. We are not a gender-sensitive organisation in name only; women are being given opportunities to take up roles that were previously male-dominated,” said Dr. Magama.
Joice Kunyati, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by Kutsaga.
“I have been working at the Tobacco Research Board since 2012. My duties include grading and packing tobacco. Through this job, I’ve been able to pay school fees and buy food. I’ve also gained skills that will help me if I decide to grow tobacco on my own,” she said.
Another employee, Fungai Murape, said the programme has brought a sense of purpose and helped reduce social challenges in Epworth.
“We had serious problems in Epworth, including drug and substance abuse, and prostitution was common. I am glad that as women we now have something productive to keep us occupied and focused. I have been working here for 10 years, and the skills and knowledge I have acquired have helped me overcome life’s challenges,” she said.
Murape, who lost her husband in 2015, said the job has enabled her to support her family.
“After my husband passed away, I continued working here so I could earn money to take care of my children. Here we grade tobacco and tie what areknown as ‘madhuku’,” she added.
Kutsaga’s empowerment initiative is not only improving livelihoods but also addressing pressing social issues in the community, demonstrating the impact of inclusive economic programmes on national development.
Kutsaga’s work in Epworth is a practical expression of Zimbabwe’s development mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind”, as it ensures that even marginalised communities and vulnerable groups are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.
