BY SAMUEL NJINGA IN MASVINGO
A group of 230 women from across Masvingo Province have expressed their gratitude after attending a life-changing financial literacy workshop, recently organized by Old Mutual in collaboration with New Faces New Voices. The workshop, which took place for a day, aimed to equip women with essential financial management skills to empower them in both personal and business capacities.
The women testified that the training had transformed their understanding of money management, saving, and investment strategies. For many, it was their first time receiving formal education on managing finances, and they expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact on their businesses and households.
“I run a small business selling various commodities in the local market, but I was always struggling with keeping proper records and saving money. This workshop has taught me how to budget and plan for the future,” said Precious Manyange, one of the participants. “I now have a savings plan, and I feel confident that my business will grow as a result.”
The workshop, spearheaded by Old Mutual and New Faces New Voices, a Pan-African organisation that advocates for women’s financial inclusion, focused on a wide range of topics including budgeting, debt management, investment opportunities, and how to access financial products such as insurance and loans. Participants were also introduced to profound financial teachings, empowering them to navigate the modern financial landscape more effectively.
“We believe that being empowered with financial literacy is key to driving economic growth in our country,” said Chipo Mawanza, who is one of the beneficiaries. “When we as women understand how to manage our finances, we are able to uplift not just ourselves, but our families and communities as well.”
Many of the women who participated in the workshop are now planning to implement what they learned in their businesses, with some already forming savings groups to support one another in their financial journeys. Others are working on developing business plans to expand their operations, while some are now in a better position to manage household finances and save for their children’s education.
“We have been given the tools to succeed, and now it’s up to us to make the most of this opportunity,” said participant Getrude Mlilo Chauke. “I am excited about the future, not just for myself but for my community.”
As the success of the workshop becomes more evident, both Old Mutual and New Faces New Voices have pledged to continue with similar initiatives across the country. With the overwhelming positive response from the women in Masvingo, the organizations are optimistic that financial literacy will help transform Zimbabwean communities, particularly in rural and underrepresented areas.
The financial literacy workshop in Masvingo is part of Old Mutual’s ongoing commitment to creating a financially literate society and ensuring that women, in particular, are included in Zimbabwe’s economic development narrative.