Meet TPT Self Help Group, consisting of six dedicated members from Makwe Village in Gwanda. The group embarked on a transformative journey to establish a baking business in a bid to sustain livelihoods.In January 2024, the six members joined the Jobs Creation Project, a Hand in Hand Zimbabwe supported group, with funding from Hand in Hand Sweden.

Before joining, the members were unemployed.However,upon joining TPT Self Help Group, the members received comprehensive training in baking techniques, environmental conservation, business management and gender issues. These trainings empowered the group members to leverage their skills and knowledge effectively, laying a solid foundation for their baking enterprise.

The Hand in Hand intervention provided the group with essential resources and knowledge that catalyzed their business growth.With the training received, the group established a baking business that produces plain buns, bread and cakes.

To facilitate their operations, the group rented a bakery in the Makwe Business Centre. Their commitment and hard work resulted in remarkable growth, positioning them as the primary bread supplier in the Makwe community.

The group’s baking venture has proven financially successful, as a result their monthly income is $1350.They make $1050 profit, after deducting monthly expenditures like flour, sugar, cooking oil, etc.

These profits have allowed the members to reinvest in their business by purchasing essential equipment such as ovens, fridges and mixers.

Additionally, each member receives a monthly allowance of USD $150 for household expenses.

While the group’s business flourishes, each member also runs individual enterprises, such as broiler production, vending and grocery retailing.

These personal businesses contribute an additional monthly profit of USD $150 to $250 , enhancing their economic stability. One member stated, “Today we are able to self-sustain ourselves and our families through our businesses.”

The impact of the Hand in Hand project extends beyond financial success. The female members of TPT emphasized several key benefits, including increased ownership of productive assets, greater participation in decision -making, improved accessibility to resources and a sense of empowerment as women.

The project has transformed their lives, allowing them to acquire productive assets such as wheelbarrows, ox-drawn ploughs, goats, and kitchen units.

The members expressed a strong desire for continued mentorship and knowledge sharing, wishing that such support could extend throughout their community.

The TPT Self Help Group’s journey exemplifies the power of community, training, and entrepreneurship. Their success story not only highlights their individual and collective achievements but also underscores the transformative impact of programs like HIHZ’s Jobs Creation Project. With gratitude, the group looks forward to expanding their horizons and inspiring others within their community to pursue self-sufficiency and empowerment.