Officials from the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism spent 67 minutes of their time during Nelson Mandela International Day Celebration on Monday, 18 July by cleaning Basizeni School in Embalenhle, and also donated an industrial sewing machine to Basele Sewing Cooperative which is run by five women involved in the sewing industry.
Speaking during the handing over ceremony at the premises of Basele Sewing Cooperatives in Embalenhle in Secunda, the Chief Director for Environmental Services Mr Sam Maluleka said, “the donation of the sewing machine is a contribution by the department towards women empowerment.” He said the donation of the machine symbolises the commitment of government’s initiative to empower women, youth, and people with disabilities. The donation will ensure the sustainability of their business, which will see many families benefiting from it. Maluleka also thanked the officials who identified the area and the staff of Basele Sewing Cooperative for showing true commitment and determination towards their businesses.
‘’Your contribution towards creating employment in your area is well appreciated and it should be supported by both government and private sector ,‘’ said Maluleka.
The Basele Cooperative was started in 2009 by Ms Jane Sizi Nkosi and has trained 14 people in sewing. They have been supplying school uniforms to the schools in Embalenhle, uniform for Graceland Casino in Secunda, and they also supply wedding dresses.
They are appealing to government and private sector to assist them with land and any other form of assistance so that they will be able to have enough space for training more staff and to increase their productivity.
Officials also went to Basizeni School, where they cleaned class rooms and assisted in the garden.
Source: Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism
