FUNDING IMPROVES WATER ACCESS

August 2025.

Bridgette Makwedini, an emerging entrepreneur from Galeshwe, Kimberley and owner of Thando Water Supply, is now better equipped to serve her community with clean, purified water, thanks to grant funding awarded through the Young Women-in-Business Empowerment Initiative.

Having successfully completed both phases of this empowerment programme, which is funded by Matla A Bokone Solar, Bridgette was awarded capital goods to fully equip her purified water station. These included a water purifier, JoJo tanks, a dispenser, a water pump, containers, signage, and all necessary electrical work and installations.

“Due to malfunctioning equipment, my business was negatively impacted, and I lost customers to competitors outside my area. The support from Matla A Bokone Solar helped me retain my clients and get my business back on track. I am now able to sell purified water consistently to my community-based clients,” explained Bridgette.

The initiative supports economically active women entrepreneurs who demonstrate operational capability, efforts toward profitability, and business compliance. Grant funding is issued only after beneficiaries meet these criteria and complete a detailed diagnostic assessment of their business.

“Capital goods are, in essence, assets used to generate income. Through this initiative, we aim to understand the current state of each small business, identify available resources, and unlock growth opportunities and competitive advantages,” explained Lesego Mosiane, Community Liaison Officer for Matla A Bokone Solar.

This support is part of an ongoing commitment to empower local women entrepreneurs and foster sustainable small businesses in the region.