Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
MRS Winnie Chitepo never imagined that a simple dairy project would transform her life and that of many other women in Mutasa District.
The mother of five, from Osborne in Mutasa District, used to struggle to make ends meet, relying on seasonal farming with little financial security.
However, today, she proudly watches as her cows produce milk that, not only sustains her family, but also contributes to a thriving co-operative that empowers women like her in the area.
“This project has empowered us in ways we never imagined. We are now taking care of our families, paying school fees, and improving our homes,” she said in an interview recently.
Mrs Chitepo is one of the 30 women, who are part of the 36-member Cynara Dairy Co-operative, which was formed in 2018, and has become a beacon of empowerment for women through dairy farming.
With support from Government and financial institutions such as the Women’s Microfinance Bank, the co-operative has grown in strength, significantly improving the livelihoods of its members and Mutasa District at large.
“We are now taking care of our families, paying school fees, and improving our homes. I initially had eight cattle, and through the loan facility, I am adding two more at US$1 600 each.
“Our co-operative consists of 36 farmers, most of whom are women. On a good day, we produce 120 litres of milk, and with the new cows, we expect a significant increase in production,” she said.
Women like Mrs Chitepo are now financially independent, no longer relying on their husbands or external aid.
The co-operative has provided them with a stable source of income and financial security, fostering a sense of confidence and achievement.
Cynara Dairy Co-operative chairperson, Mr Francis Musunzuru said they began with a shared vision among local farmers who sought to create a sustainable source of income through dairy farming.
He said they embarked on their journey with the mere thought of empowering their female farmer population.
“Dairibord is our processor and we supply our milk to them. The company then pays us twice a month.
“This year alone, we have supplied 67 000 litres of milk, and with the recent support we received from Government through the Women’s Microfinance Bank, we anticipate reaching 300 000 litres by year-end.
“The loan enabled us to purchase 28 high-breed dairy cows that are due to give birth next week. With these cows, we project an annual revenue of approximately US$415 000, which directly benefits our community,” he said.
The co-operative initially relied on 159 low-breed cows, which produced less milk.
However, the introduction of high-breed cows has dramatically increased milk production.
Mr Musunzuru
He said women have played a pivotal role in the success of Cynara Dairy Co-operative, with many having invested in the purchasing of their own cattle and becoming self-sufficient through the dairy business.
Despite the co-operative’s success, challenges remain.
One pressing issue is the need for irrigation systems to sustain grazing lands.
“Our grazing land needs to be irrigated, but we lack the resources to do so. If we can secure assistance for irrigation, we will be able to create an industry that will benefit the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“We also want to do value addition. We already have soybean and sunflower pressing machines. Our goal is to mix our own feed for the cows, while also producing cooking oil and other dairy-related products for sale,” he said.
The co-operative has also engaged experts from University of Zimbabwe to help with animal nutrition and feed formulation, ensuring that the cows receive optimal care and yield the highest possible milk production.
During her recent visit to Cynara Dairy Co-operative, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, commended the initiative for its role in advancing women’s economic empowerment.
She said the growth is, not just about numbers, but the people behind the success, particularly the women, who now see themselves as financial contributors and decision-makers in their households.
“This co-operative is a shining example of what women can achieve when given the right support and resources. Government remains committed to providing financial assistance and technical support to ensure that initiatives like this continue to grow.
“The empowerment of women is, not just a social issue; it is an economic imperative that will drive our country forward,” said Minister Mutsvangwa, adding that the co-operative should explore opportunities beyond milk production.
“The ability to process your own dairy products and venture into related industries will, not only increase profitability, but also create employment opportunities for others in the community,” she added.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza who was also present during the tour, praised the co-operative, saying that it is more than a rural business, but a lifeline for rural Mutasa women.
“Cynara Dairy Co-operative is more than just a rural dairy business, it is a movement of empowerment, resilience, and community-driven success. The cooperative’s journey shows just how our women are often overlooked, but they are the backbone of the family, the community and even the economy. Our women have a critical role in agriculture and targeted support can unlock their potential as has happened here,” he said.
Beyond the economic benefits, the impact of the dairy co-operative extends to the overall well-being of the community.
With stable incomes, members can afford better healthcare, education, and housing.
The co-operative has also strengthened social bonds among members, fostering a spirit of teamwork and mutual support.
Another co-operative member, Mrs Esnath Mugari, shared her experience: “Before joining the co-operative, I struggled to make ends meet.
“But now, I can comfortably provide for my children and even save for the future. This project has changed our lives in ways we never expected,” she said.
