Tinotenda Hove- More than 135 members of the Masvingo chapter of Rural Women 4ED have travelled to Tanzania on what organisers describe as a women empowerment and business exchange programme, but the trip has sparked criticism from some Zimbabweans who question its value at a time of worsening economic hardship.

Led by Councillor Euphrasia Ruvai Chadzamira, the delegation is expected to participate in business networking activities, conduct wholesale and retail shopping at Dar es Salaam’s famous Kariakoo Market, and visit tourist attractions, including Onoono Beach.

While the programme has been presented as an opportunity to strengthen entrepreneurship and expose participants to new business ideas, critics argue that overseas trips do little to address the daily struggles faced by thousands of rural women battling poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure and limited access to affordable capital.

Speaking before the delegation’s departure, Councillor Chadzamira described the visit as an important opportunity for the participants.

“The women are excited about this opportunity to visit Tanzania. It will be both educational and empowering,” she said.
She added that the programme would “strengthen the participants’ business knowledge, expand their networks and inspire greater economic participation.”

However, critics say genuine empowerment should focus on creating sustainable opportunities at home through improved access to loans, farming inputs, markets, vocational training and support for small businesses rather than international shopping and tourism excursions.

Councillor Chadzamira also thanked President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for supporting the initiative.

“I would like to express my gratitude to His Excellency President Dr Emmerson D. Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for creating opportunities that continue to empower women and promote their active participation in business, entrepreneurship and leadership,” she said.

The trip has reignited debate over whether politically affiliated empowerment programmes are delivering tangible economic benefits or simply providing high-profile travel opportunities for a select few while many rural women continue to face rising living costs and shrinking economic prospects.