Women at the Centre: Empowering Women, Transforming Lives in Bubi
By Leana Padera (Communications Graduate Intern)
Bubi, Zimbabwe – A delegation from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Technical Division recently visited Bubi District to observe the implementation and impact of the Women at the Centre project. The UNFPA-funded project seeks to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV) by empowering women and girls, strengthening community systems, and improving access to essential services for survivors.
During the visit, the delegation met with project participants and witnessed how livelihood initiatives such as plain bun baking and fence making are helping women build economic independence and regain confidence. Beyond generating income, these activities are creating opportunities for women to support their families, participate in household decision-making, and rebuild their lives.
For Sithabile, the project has been life-changing.
"This project has given me purpose. I now spend my time doing productive work, and every month I earn an income that helps me buy food for my children. It gives me great joy to know that I can contribute to my family's well-being," she said.
The delegation observed women baking plain buns using simple wood-fired ovens before packaging them for sale. Despite the modest equipment, the enterprise has become a reliable source of income, helping participants meet their families' everyday needs while building their confidence and self-reliance.
Alexandra Robinson, Global GBV Advisor at UNFPA, commended the women for their determination and the progress they have made.
"It has been inspiring to see this work firsthand and to taste the freshly baked buns. What stands out most is the confidence these women have gained. Their resilience and commitment to creating better lives for themselves and their families is truly remarkable," she said.
In addition to baking, the women have ventured into fence making, producing and selling fences for approximately US$300 each roll. The proceeds are shared among the group members, providing an important source of household income.
For Juliet, earning an income has transformed not only her financial situation but also the way she is viewed within her household.
"When my husband first heard that I was making fences, he did not take me seriously. He thought it was just a hobby. But when he saw me producing quality fences and contributing financially to our home, he became proud of me. This project has given me a voice in my household," she said.
Economic empowerment plays a critical role in preventing gender-based violence. By equipping women with practical livelihood skills and opportunities to earn an income, the project is helping reduce vulnerability, strengthen self-confidence, and promote more equitable relationships within families and communities.
Bhekimpilo Sithole, Health and Nutrition Technical Advisor at World Vision Zimbabwe, said the programme demonstrates the importance of addressing both the social and economic drivers of gender-based violence.
"As World Vision Zimbabwe, we are proud to be part of this important initiative. Gender-based violence remains a significant challenge in many communities, and empowering women through livelihood opportunities is one way of helping them build resilience, regain confidence, and strengthen their ability to make decisions that affect their lives and those of their families," he said.
The visit provided the UNFPA delegation with an opportunity to witness firsthand the tangible impact of the Women at the Centre project. Through practical livelihood opportunities, strengthened community support, and increased confidence among participants, the initiative is helping women in Bubi District build safer, more secure, and more hopeful futures for themselves and their families.