As 2024 draws to a close, the Clover Mama Afrika project reflects on a year marked by resilience, determination, and success through community empowerment.
This corporate sustainability initiative, is a community-led strategy aimed at reducing poverty in neighbourhoods by empowering women and their communities to empower future generations.
Since its inception in 2004, the project has maintained a steadfast commitment to alleviating poverty through the empowerment of women, fostering sustainable community growth, and laying foundations for future generations.
It is revealed that this year, 440 training sessions have served over 2,313 beneficiaries, underscoring the project's profound impact.
Prof. Elain Vlok, the manager of the Clover Mama Afrika Trust, poignantly expressed the sentiments of the program as the year concludes.
“We celebrate this year as one of success, hard work, persistence, and valuable lessons learnt. Our Mama Afrikas have not only built thriving businesses but have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Even in difficult times, they rise stronger, invariably proving that hard work yields rewards. With this success, I have every confidence that 2025 will see even greater achievements.”
It is explained that the sentiment of perseverance resonates powerfully through the voices of several Mama Afrikas, who shared their experiences of the past year, revealing both the hardships they faced and the victories they achieved.
Mama Feziwe Gambo - Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal
A beacon of tenacity, Mama Feziwe opened her own bakery in 2024, generating job opportunities for four new staff members. “One of the most critical lessons I learnt this year was to never give up, even when life’s challenges weigh heavily upon you. I encourage others to be persistent and patient; hard work pays off.”
Gail Koeberg - Magaliessig, Gauteng
For Koeberg, this year marked both challenges and recognition as she was named a Clover Mama Afrika Ambassador. She obtained accreditation for her sewing and baking initiatives, helping members of her community secure employment. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude towards Prof. Vlok for her unwavering support and encouragement.
Felicity Maluleke - Soweto, Gauteng
Maluleke proudly returned to her baking roots, filling her community with the joy of fresh, affordable bread every day. “With the knowledge I've gained from Clover Mama Afrika, I am able to provide for my neighbours and create memorable experiences through my baking,” she said, highlighting the emotional uplift that her work brings.
Nondumiso Mpitimpiti - Amalinda Forest, Eastern Cape
In a compelling narrative of transformation, Mpitimpiti left her corporate job to establish an early childhood development centre, driven by a desire to support vulnerable children. “Educating and nurturing children from a young age is vital for their future. I am passionate about ending poverty and promoting well-being across all ages,” she affirmed.
Miriam Makamu - Tembisa, Gauteng
Makamu’s bakery endeavours have been a roller coaster of experiences, yet she remains committed to growth. “Despite facing challenges, I see each obstacle as an opportunity for development,” she reflected, emphasising her optimism for the future.
Phomolo Raisa - Botshabelo, Free State
Celebrating her achievements as one of the Clover Mama Afrika Ambassadors, Raisa found joy in learning and evolving her craft, which includes managing an egg-laying and pig farming project. “Thanks to Prof. Vlok’s guidance, my business has flourished, and I have become a proud leader in my community,” she remarked.
This collective resilience of the Mama Afrikas highlights not only their individual journeys but also the intrinsic power of community empowerment.
The Star