The City of Harare in partnership with Cordaid Global Office and development partners, has handed over skills training starter packs to women in Hopley under the Urban Voucher Programme during an event held Tariro Youth Centre. Speaking at the event, Head Education and Social Services, Mrs Lizzy Muchena said the programme is aimed at empowering women with practical skills and resources to improve their livelihoods. “The programme seeks to promote women’s socio-economic empowerment while strengthening urban health-related services by equipping beneficiaries with tools to start or expand income-generating projects,” said Mrs Muchena. The starter packs will support businesses such as tailoring, baking, hairdressing and catering, with beneficiaries also receiving ongoing mentorship and support. Beneficiaries were urged to use the packs responsibly, maintain quality standards and apply their skills to build sustainable businesses. City officials said Community Service Officers based at Tariro Youth Centre, Waterfalls and Stoddart Halls will monitor the distribution, provide mentorship and facilitate linkages to markets and, where possible, financial services. The City also called on the private sector, NGOs and community leaders to support the women through market linkages and business opportunities, while expressing appreciation to Cordaid, government departments and other partners for supporting the programme. Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development representatives, City of Harare officials, Community Care Workers, development partners and beneficiaries attended the event.
