The Vukani BoMake programme has officially opened its 15th Cottage Factory in Luyengweni, marking another milestone in women empowerment, sustainable livelihoods and grassroots economic development.
The factory was established through a E150,000 investment from CONCO Limited, whose support helped transform a community hall into a productive manufacturing space focused on turning textile waste into economic opportunities.
The launch also comes a few weeks after the graduation of 15 women who completed training under the programme and are expected to drive production and entrepreneurship within the factory.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, CONCO General Manager – Muzi Mahlobo – said the initiative represents the power of collaboration, innovation and community empowerment.
“At Coca-Cola, we believe in the principle of creating value beyond business. Meaningful impact comes not only from the products and services that we deliver but also from how we empower the communities we serve,” he said.
Mahlobo said the project aligns with the company’s sustainability priorities, which include community empowerment, waste management, education and sustainable enterprise development.
“The Vukani BoMake Cottage Factory embodies this very spirit. By giving women, youth and people living with disabilities access to meaningful work, this initiative strengthens the foundation of the Luyengo community and fosters long-term economic resilience,” he added.
He further highlighted that the project promotes eco-conscious production by converting textile waste into valuable products while protecting the environment.
Chairperson of Business Women Eswatini, Tokky Hou, expressed appreciation to CONCO for supporting the initiative, noting that this was the second cottage factory shell sponsored by the company following a similar project in Lobamba Lomdzala. Hou also commended Chief Lembelele for prioritising community development and supporting the initiative’s establishment in Luyengweni.
“The shell which now houses the factory was initially intended for community gatherings and meetings, but today it has become a centre for empowerment and economic activity,” she said.
She encouraged the women pioneers and community members to safeguard the initiative and grow it into a large-scale operation capable of producing goods for export markets.
Chief Lembelele thanked CONCO and Business Eswatini for bringing the project to the area, saying it would play a critical role in fighting poverty and creating opportunities for local residents.
Meanwhile, CEO of Business Eswatini, E. Nathi Dlamini, said initiatives such as the Vukani BoMake programme demonstrate the importance of taking development directly to communities.
“Real impact happens when you meet people where they are,” said Dlamini.