To celebrate the end of Women’s Month, a group of women from Ward 16 in Mthatha, known as Amakhosikazi Elali, came together with the Eastern Cape Women’s Magazine at the Great House of Mangcengane in King Sabata Dalindyebo. These women have started cooperatives focused on farming, traditional dance, and savings circles where they support each other financially.
These cooperatives help them run their businesses and reduce their reliance on government grants. Nozinzile, the group’s spokesperson, said they use the money from their savings to educate themselves and build their homes. However, they face challenges, especially since their savings groups are not legally recognized, meaning they don’t earn interest on their savings.
The women held a joyful closing ceremony for Women’s Month. Pamela Timakwe, the editor of the Eastern Cape Women’s Magazine, attended the event and encouraged the women to keep up their hard work and dedication. She also shared her thoughts, saying, “As we wrap up the month of August and remember the pride of women, we are also strengthening our stakeholder relations by empowering one another, informing, and sharing our different journeys.”
