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Asohlulwa Sinamandla Primary Cooperative is proving what resilience and opportunity can achieve. The cooperative is fully black-owned and led by women living with disabilities. Their work shows the importance of inclusive economic development in the Eastern Cape.
The group formed in 2005. It registered formally in 2025. Since then, it has moved from a small idea to a growing community enterprise. Their focus is simple but powerful: produce high-quality garments that meet local demand while creating dignified employment.
A Small Container Turned Into a Working Factory
The cooperative operates from a six-metre container in Elliotdale’s CBD, inside the Mbashe Local Municipality offices. The space is modest, yet the activity inside is vibrant. Five women design, sew, bead and produce clothing for schools, churches and families across the area.
Their product range includes traditional wear, beaded accessories, school uniforms and church garments. This work has created five permanent jobs. Members say they hope to hire more workers soon, especially young people interested in sewing and design.
Training That Built Skills and Confidence
The cooperative’s growth is linked to targeted support from the Eastern Cape Development Corporation. Members received training in Basic Business Skills and Cooperative Governance. They also completed advanced courses in sewing, knitting and beading. The training improved their technical skills, strengthened business systems and helped them operate with confidence.
Members say this support allowed them to compete fairly in local markets. It also helped them produce consistent quality that meets community needs.
New Machinery That Expanded Production
The ECDC recently delivered specialised sewing and embroidery machinery to the cooperative. This includes an embroidery legacy machine, safety stitch and direct stitch units, Singer machines, bulk sewing materials and a fully insulated 6 m x 6 m working space fitted with a kitchen unit.
The investment, valued at more than R300 000, has changed how the cooperative operates. The new equipment increased production speed, improved accuracy and created a safer, more comfortable working environment. Members say this upgrade has opened opportunities to take on larger orders.
A Model for Economic Inclusion
The cooperative’s journey shows that inclusive development is an economic asset, not a charity gesture. With proper tools and support, persons living with disabilities can lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to regional growth.
As the world observes Disability Day, their story stands as a reminder that economic participation must be accessible. It must create space for every entrepreneur to succeed, regardless of their limitations.
A Commitment to a More Inclusive Eastern Cape
The ECDC says it remains committed to building barrier-free economic ecosystems. These efforts aim to help cooperatives like Asohlulwa Sinamandla expand, compete and play a transformative role in the province.
For the five women behind the brand, the message is simple: disability does not reduce capability. Their work uplifts homes, strengthens the local economy and inspires others to believe in their own potential.
