U. S. to expand support to community initiatives
Masvingo, May 12, 2009: The United States will continue to look at ways of expanding its support to community based projects in Zimbabwe to help alleviate the impact of poverty, says U.S. Ambassador James McGee.
McGee officially handed over a borehole to Tagona Peanut Butter Milling group, an initiative of 13 women in Bikita district in Masvingo province, at a ceremony attended by villagers, chiefs and councilors in the district.
The borehole was built with support from the U.S. Ambassador’s Self Help Fund and supplies water to an entire village in Bikita district.
Tagona Peanut Butter and Milling was formed in 1996 by 13 women. The group now employs four youth who are involved in the processing of the peanut butter and protecting the premises. It supplies peanut butter to mission schools, supermarkets and other local consumers in Masvingo province.
Ms. Pindai Chiduwa, coordinator of the group, says the individual members of the group share profits of up to 300 rands each month and are looking at expanding their work to support farmers to grow more groundnuts.
She said the group had faced challenges during the highly charged periods around elections when some individuals with political connections refused to pay for supplies.
Congratulating the women on their perseverance, McGee noted that “Zimbabweans are some of the most industrious and smartest business people.” All they need is a little bit of opportunity to make things work.”
“These are the types of programs that we would love to see and partner with. We would like to see this work replicated across the country,” said McGee.
Each year, the U.S Embassy spends nearly US$100,000 supporting local grassroots organizations in various areas. The projects include women’s and children’s groups, HIV and AIDS projects, income generating projects and water development.
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