The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe has equipped women from three Insiza North communities with 30 sewing machines and materials to produce reusable sanitary pads, repair school uniforms and make garments for sale as part of efforts to promote sustainable rural livelihoods.
The equipment, donated by American philanthropist Julie Phippen, was handed over to women from Ncozane, Lochard and Shangani at Ensangu Primary School on Saturday.
Each group received 10 sewing machines, fabric, thread and cutting scissors.
The initiative is expected to help beneficiaries manufacture reusable sanitary products for schoolgirls and elderly women while creating income-generating opportunities.
Methodist Church Bulawayo district pastor Reverend Sinini Ndiweni said the donation was part of the church’s strategic social responsibility programme aimed at empowering communities.
He said the machines would enable beneficiaries to produce reusable sanitary ware, sew and mend school uniforms, make clothes for sale and donate garments to community members in need.
Nsango Society local church steward Priscilla Ndebele said the donation followed Phippen’s interaction with women during a visit to Zimbabwe, where she listened to their challenges and pledged assistance.
She said the machines would be housed at nearby schools rather than individual homes to promote transparency, collective ownership and equal access.
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“This door is open to every woman, regardless of religious affiliation. Whether you are Dorcas from SDA or from any apostolic sect, come and learn, come and earn,” she said.
Ndebele encouraged the women to diversify their projects beyond sanitary pads by making school uniforms and other garments for sale.
Ndiweni urged beneficiaries to work together and ensure the equipment was used for the benefit of the wider community.
Elder Mthokozisi Stephen Dube challenged parents and teachers to prioritise practical skills development, saying vocational skills could help families become economically self-reliant.
“This machine is not just metal. It is a door. Walk through it together,” Dube said.
The handover was attended by political leaders, councillors, traditional leaders and community representatives.
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South women’s league provincial secretary Clara Langa delivered welcome remarks, while Deputy Mines Secretary Sihle Mathe received the donation on behalf of Insiza North legislator Delani Moyo.
Councillor Kembo Nkomo donated US$100 to an orphaned schoolgirl at Ensangu Primary School and US$60 to the Shangani group to assist with transporting equipment.
Nkomo commended the Methodist Church for practical empowerment of rural women.
“I am proud to see the church leading real empowerment. This is what development looks like on the ground,” she said.
The church said training workshops on producing reusable sanitary pads would be conducted in the coming weeks.
