Strength in Her Hands

Women’s Enterprise and the Gospel of Dignity

In Zimbabwe, ministry often extends far beyond the pulpit — into gardens, farms, and small enterprises that strengthen communities and transform lives. In 2024, The United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) hosted its Entrepreneurial Skills Workshop, equipping women evangelists with the tools to combine faith with practical action. The workshop emphasized that addressing spiritual needs could go hand-in-hand with addressing economic and social challenges, and the results are already evident across the Synod.

Mrs. Thandekile Gama is one such example. With her start-up funds from the workshop, she launched a brick-moulding project. The initiative not only supports her family financially but has also allowed her to expand her home, creating a space her family can be proud of.

“I sell block bricks at one dollar for two,” she said proudly, a smile lighting her face. “Now I’m extending my house into the home I always dreamed of. Every brick I sell is a step closer to a better life for my family.”

Praymore Ncube turned her attention to goat farming. Starting with just five goats, she has already seen remarkable growth — four of the goats have given birth, increasing her herd and her hope for the future.

“Each new kid is a blessing,” Praymore shared. “It means growth — not just for me, but for my church. We can use the income to support community projects, feed families, and teach our children the value of hard work.”

Other participants have embraced poultry and vegetable projects, transforming small plots of land into productive gardens and raising chickens that provide both sustenance and income. Together, these women are redefining what ministry looks like in their communities.

“We learned that faith without work is dead,” said one evangelist participant. “Now we’re showing our communities that faith can grow food, build homes, and raise hope. Ministry is not only about preaching; it’s about creating opportunities for life and dignity.”

By integrating ministry and enterprise, these leaders are demonstrating a holistic vision of mission — one where spiritual formation, economic empowerment, and community development are intertwined. Their efforts highlight how the UCCSA Synod, with the support of Global Ministries, is empowering women to become agents of both spiritual and social transformation, inspiring others to follow their example and proving that faith can truly move both hearts and hands.