The Chronicle

BULAWAYO, Saturday, October 11, 1992 — Zimbabwean women were yesterday called upon to venture into big business enterprises which would generate employment as opposed to the production of handicraft items normally done at women’s clubs level.

Officially opening a five-day handicraft show for women’s clubs in the Midlands province at Gweru Showgrounds yesterday, the Minister of State in the President’s office responsible for coordinating Women’s Affairs, Cde Thenjiwe Lesabe, said it was time women moved into the establishment of big business enterprises.

She said gone were the days when women were regarded as people who could only engage in weaving, sewing or knitting.

“We want women to venture into big business like manufacturing industries which will create employment for our children,” said Cde Lesabe.

Cde Lesabe said women had the potential to run such big enterprises but needed commitment and sacrifice. Government officers were ready with the expertise to assist women in working out projects of this magnitude. “If next year I do not receive information that three big industries run by women have been established in the Midlands please do not call me to open your show,” joked Cde Lesabe to the applause of the women.

Turning to the participation of women in current projects for women throughout the country Cde Lesabe said it was disappointing to note that some women were shunning these projects.