Siphiwe Dube, a woman from Matobo District, is a testament to how skills development and women’s empowerment initiatives can unlock confidence, creativity, and new opportunities. She was among the women who participated in Value Addition training facilitated through the Women Leadership Empowerment and Advocacy Programme implemented by HOCIC.
During the training, Siphiwe gained practical skills in processing and adding value to locally available food products. One of the skills she learnt was the preparation of baobab juice, a nutritious traditional beverage made from locally available baobab fruit. The training not only equipped her with practical knowledge but also encouraged her to explore traditional foods and find innovative ways of presenting them.
After mastering the skills, Siphiwe put her knowledge into practice by participating in the District Traditional Dishes Cook-Out Competition. Competing against other participants, she prepared a variety of traditional dishes, including the baobab juice she had learnt to make during the value addition training. Her creativity, presentation, use of local ingredients, and application of the skills gained through the training helped her stand out from the other competitors.
Siphiwe emerged as number one in the district, demonstrating the impact that targeted skills training can have on women’s confidence, creativity, and ability to showcase their talents. Her success is an example of how investing in women’s skills can translate into tangible achievements and recognition within the community.
