By Promise Dube
The Emthonjeni Women’s Forum is empowering the Vokola community in Insiza South by donating two greenhouses and a solar-powered borehole.
This initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture and improve the lives of residents.
The greenhouses near the Vokola dam will enable residents to cultivate tomatoes, cucumbers, and green peppers.
Matilda Dube, Ward 7 Councilor, explained the project’s benefits. “The borehole, powered by solar energy, will provide water for both household use and the greenhouses,” she said. “With dry dams, this water source will also benefit livestock.”
Councilor Dube estimates that 30 women will directly benefit from the project, with 15 working in each greenhouse. These women previously farmed together in communal gardens.
“I wholeheartedly support this initiative,” said Councilor Dube. “It represents significant progress for my ward and will undoubtedly benefit the community.”
She added that the women have formed a committee to manage the project, with Bayethe Nkala, the ward coordinator, providing additional support.
Siphethile Nsingo, the chairperson of the women’s group, explained the purpose of the greenhouses. “These structures will provide shade for the vegetables, protecting them from harsh sunlight, insects, and bacteria,” she said.
Nsingo added that trained members of the group will be responsible for greenhouse maintenance.
“We received training on digging trenches and planting tomatoes,” Nsingo explained. “This project will benefit the community by providing a sustainable source of vegetables, reducing reliance on purchasing them elsewhere.”
The greenhouses are envisioned to contribute to food security and long-term sustainability in Vokola. Harvested vegetables will be sold to boarding schools, local markets, and residents.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Emthonjeni Women’s Forum,” said Nsingo. “With dedication to maintaining these greenhouses, we can empower our families. We can send our children to college and break the cycle of poverty in our homes.”
